Middletown, CT — Connecticut Republican Party Chairman Ben Proto issued the following statement in response to federal charges against a Naugatuck man accused of threatening to kill Republicans and a public official, as well as reports of suspicious letters containing unknown substances being mailed to Democratic elected officials and political offices.

“Let me be absolutely clear: Political violence, threats of violence, and intimidation have no place in our state, our country, or our political process. Period.

“The allegations against the Naugatuck individual who reportedly threatened to kill Republicans, identified potential targets, and claimed to have accumulated weapons are deeply disturbing. Equally disturbing are the recent incidents involving suspicious letters containing unknown substances being mailed to Democratic elected officials, including Connecticut Senators Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal, and election offices across the country.

“I condemn these actions unequivocally, regardless of who is responsible, who is threatened, or what political party they belong to.

“We can disagree passionately about public policy, challenge one another’s political positions, and engage in vigorous campaigns. That is the foundation of our democracy. But threatening someone’s life, intimidating public officials, or attempting to instill fear because of political differences crosses a line that no American should ever tolerate.

“Republicans and Democrats alike have the right to express their political beliefs, run for office, serve their communities, and participate in our elections without fear for their personal safety or the safety of their families and staff.

“Political differences must be settled through debate, discussion, and ultimately at the ballot box. Threats, intimidation, or violence are never acceptable and we must all, regardless of party, denounce any individual or action who or which threatens physical harm against anyone because of their political beliefs or affiliations.

“I commend our federal, state, and local law enforcement officials for their swift response to these incidents and urge that those responsible be held fully accountable under the law.

“As political leaders, we have a responsibility to lower the temperature, reject those who advocate violence, and make clear that no political cause, no political party, and no election justifies threatening another human being.

“Violence is never the answer. Not against Republicans. Not against Democrats. Not against anyone. EVER!!”

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