WSC Statement on Assault of Paul Pelosi

Today, Paul Pelosi, the husband of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, was assaulted in their home by suspected attacker David DePape. Initial reports have identified DePape as promoting antisemitic, misogynistic and racist language and conspiracy theories.

In response to the assault, Western States Center’s Deputy Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives, Amy Herzfeld-Copple, issued the following statement:

“The assault on Paul Pelosi and the intended targeting of Speaker Pelosi is a deeply disturbing example of how political violence is escalating in our country. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident. This summer, an armed man was arrested outside the home of Rep. Pramila Jayapal after threatening to kill her. Just this week, three men were convicted of conspiring to kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. And local officials have faced increasing threats and harassment across the country.

“While we don’t have all the details about the alleged attacker, we know that conspiracy theories act as an accelerant to violence. White nationalism and other authoritarian movements use disinformation to foment violence; they encourage the belief that democracy can’t be trusted to affect political change and that violence is the only solution.

“This attack demands a robust response from government leaders. Elected officials from both parties need to condemn this assault – and also the impacts of anti-democracy and white nationalist extremism on local and state governance, businesses, places of worship, and communities. It’s time to stop responding to dangerous conspiracy theories with a wink and a nod. It’s time for a clear commitment to addressing the critical threat of hate-fueled violence.”

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About Western States Center – Based in the Pacific Northwest and Mountain States, Western States Center works nationwide to strengthen inclusive democracy through building movement, developing leaders, shifting culture, and defending democracy.