Donald Trump Says He Is ‘Not Familiar’ With Democrat’s Assassination

During a briefing on Monday, Donald Trump faced a question about the reason he did not order flags lowered to half-staff for the Minnesota House Speaker, following her assassinated with her spouse in recent months.

The question came up after Trump’s recent order to fly national emblems at half-staff for right-leaning commentator Charlie Kirk, after being fatally shot while speaking near Utah Valley University.

When pressed on why his party and several Republicans often accuse the left over an increase in partisan attacks, Trump in his first response said that he was "unaware" regarding this incident.

"I’m not familiar. The who?" Trump responded, leaning in across his desk.

When Nancy Cordes reiterated that the Minnesota official had been a Democrat following her shot this summer, Trump replied:

"I see. Had the governor requested it, I would have complied."

Trump suggested whether the Minnesota governor might have made the request, Trump would have obliged, but the president did not reference the Democratic figure directly.

The president went on to say, justifying the administration’s stance:

"I wouldn’t have thought of that, but I would’ve, if somebody had asked me."

He additionally remarked on how lowering flags can be a frequent petition, which thus the administration sometimes needs to decline these requests so as not excessive ceremonial gestures.

Broader Political Climate

This conversation took place against the backdrop of an intense political debate regarding partisan attacks across the country.

While the president and several right-leaning voices have blamed left-wing groups for instigating attacks, commentators highlight the fact that attacks has affected figures across all parties, such as:

• Murder of Melissa Hortman
• An attack on property belonging to a Democratic governor
• Attack on the former speaker’s spouse
• Prevented plan against Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Despite multiple events, many Republican figures have largely focused primarily on condemning death of the Turning Point USA founder, but providing less attention regarding incidents affecting Democrats.

Trump’s Further Remarks

Subsequently, Trump disputed the idea that his administration has accused just Democrats regarding ideological attacks, but proceeded to blame what he called "extremist liberals" over fueling "significant unrest".

"Far-left activists have created serious issues nationwide," Trump said. "I really think they hate our country."

Earlier the same day, Trump’s running mate, a close friend of Kirk’s, appeared on a broadcast remembering Kirk during which he called for political reconciliation, yet also insisted this was not an issue of "both sides problem", arguing saying the left are largely responsible.

In the episode, he omitted mention regarding the Minnesota assassination and further cases involving political violence, for example the January 6 assault at the Capitol building.