Amy Acton attacked at campaign event near Youngstown; multiple people reportedly injured
CANFIELD, Ohio —
Amy Acton was reportedly attacked at a campaign event near Youngstown on Sunday.
According to a statement put out by Acton’s campaign, an armed individual lunged at Acton while she was at the Canfield Fair in Mahoning County, resulting in the injuries of multiple people who were nearby.
A statement attributed to Addie Bullock, Acton’s campaign communications director, said that the Democratic gubernatorial candidate was “grateful” for the swift law enforcement response, but did not directly address whether Acton was injured.
“This kind of violence has no place in Ohio. Dr. Acton will always stand up to the chaos, hate and vitriol that pits us against one another,” continued Bullock.
Chris Anderson, the chairman of the Mahoning County Democratic Party, confirmed shortly afterward that the suspect had been taken into police custody and was found to be armed with multiple weapons.
According to Anderson, several campaign volunteers were knocked to the ground as the suspect lunged towards Acton.
“What happened at our tent today during today’s visit from Dr. Acton is reprehensible and should be condemned by leaders on all sides of the aisle,” said Anderson. “MCDP is grateful for the quick response by our local law enforcement officials as well as the OSHP providing Dr. Acton security.”
The campaign of Vivek Ramaswamy, who is Acton’s Republican opponent in the Ohio gubernatorial race, released a statement condemning the attack shortly after it happened.
“Candidates should be able to meet with voters without having to worry about threats or violence. What happened today is completely unacceptable and has no place in politics, and we hope hope that no one was hurt,” said Connie Luck, Ramaswamy’s campaign communications director.
WLWT is working to learn more.
The full statement from Acton’s campaign can be read below.
“While attending the Canfield Fair, an armed individual lunged at Dr. Acton, injuring multiple people. Dr. Acton and Eric are grateful for the swift and decisive action of law enforcement and are praying for the recovery of those injured. This kind of violence has no place in Ohio. Dr. Acton will always stand up to the chaos, hate and vitriol that pits us against one another.”