GOP, Dems call for criminal charges after Shapiro governor’s mansion fire
Lawmakers from both sides of the political spectrum were swift to denounce acts of violence following the arrest of a man accused of setting fire to the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion while Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were inside sleeping.
House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., expressed his condemnation of the attack, stating, “There is no place in our society for political violence and actions like this. I’m praying for Governor Shapiro and his family — and hope the heroes in PA law enforcement bring those responsible to justice.”
Senator Ed Markey, D-Mass., also spoke out against the attack, saying, “The attack on Governor Shapiro and his family on the first night of Passover is hateful and horrific. I am grateful for their safety and sending love to him and his family.”
The suspect, Cody Balmer, 38, will be facing charges including attempted murder, terrorism, and aggravated arson, according to officials at a press conference held on Sunday. Authorities reported that Balmer evaded law enforcement stationed at the mansion and forcibly entered to set the blaze.
Images released after the incident showed ash-covered rooms and extensive fire damage. Governor Shapiro, who is Jewish, recounted being woken up around 2 a.m. to evacuate his home after celebrating the first night of Passover. Luckily, no one was injured in the attack.
Despite the current hyper-partisan environment, both Republicans and Democrats united in condemning the violence. Representative Elise Stefanik, R-N.Y., called the incident “deeply disturbing and very scary” and called for the perpetrator to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Political violence of any kind is never acceptable, and it is especially unconscionable to attack a Jewish family during the first night of Passover. Everyone responsible must be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”
Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation also showed solidarity, with former House Freedom Caucus Chair Scott Perry, R-Pa., expressing relief that the Governor and his family were safe after the terrifying incident.
Representative Summer Lee, D-Pa., a member of the progressive “Squad,” called for a swift investigation, while Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., emphasized the importance of condemning the attack and ensuring that the perpetrators face the consequences of their actions.
Senator Dave McCormick, R-Pa., stressed that such violence cannot be tolerated, and those responsible must be held accountable for their deplorable actions.
In conclusion, the incident at the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion serves as a reminder that unity is key in times of crisis. Regardless of political differences, it is crucial to stand together as a community and a country against acts of violence. Moving forward, it is essential to prioritize justice and ensure that those who seek to divide us are met with the full force of the law.
Elizabeth Elkind is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital leading coverage of the House of Representatives. Previous digital bylines seen at Daily Mail and CBS News. Follow on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.com.
