Police in Athens, Alabama, are investigating what they say is a “politically motivated attack” on Trump volunteer Tara Johnson outside the local Republican Party headquarters.
Tara Johnson, described in a press release from the Alabama Republican Party as a “dedicated Republican volunteer,” was assaulted on the outskirts of Trump’s Republican headquarters in Limestone County, Alabama, over the weekend.
Alabama Republican Party Communications Director Jeannie Negron Burniston said Johnson is serving as a lead volunteer despite health issues that make it difficult for him to travel.
Mr Burniston added that the assault took place inside Mr Johnson’s car and that the attacker “grabbed Mr Johnson by the hair, repeatedly punched him in the face and slammed his head against the door of the truck”.
“The attack on Tara Johnson is a shameful act of violence that has no place in our society,” Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wall said in a statement. “This is very personal to me as I have worked with Tara on the Limestone County Executive Board for many years. Tara is more than just a volunteer. She is a kind and generous person who helps people in need. We are saddened and outraged by this senseless act of violence against her.”
“Athens Police are currently investigating the assault. We appeal to anyone with information to come forward and help bring the perpetrators to justice,” he added. “Violence has no place in our political discourse. Those in charge must be held accountable for their actions. In times of political adversity, we must come together to promote civility, respect and peaceful It is important that we reaffirm our commitment to political engagement. I call on the Democratic Party and the mainstream media to end their relentless vitriol against Donald Trump and his supporters. Discrimination and denigration only sow division and discord within our society. We can and should do better.”
Follow Jeff Poor on Twitter @jeff_poor
