Gunshots have twice struck a campaign office for Kamala Harris in Tempe, Arizona. The latest incident occurred just days before the Democratic Nominee’s planned visit to the state. Workers discovered bullet holes in the front windows on September 23, prompting a police investigation.
Tempe Police Investigate Recent Gunfire Damage
Tempe Police are treating the September 23 incident as a property crime. “We can confirm that on 9/23/24, what appears to be damage from gunfire at … a DNC Campaign Office was discovered,” the police stated to NBC News.
No one was inside the office during the shooting. The workspace serves not only the Harris campaign but also the Arizona Democratic Party and other congressional campaigns they support.
Public Information Officer Sgt. Ryan Cook expressed concern, saying, “No one was inside the office during the overnight hours, but this raises concerns about the safety of those who work in that building, as well as those nearby.”
Second Gunfire Incident Raises Alarm
This marks the second instance of gunfire toward the office in recent weeks. On September 16, the office’s front windows were first shot with what police believe was a BB or pellet gun.
Arizona Democratic Party Chairwoman Yolanda Bejarano commented on the incidents. “It is extremely sad that our office spaces have become the target of violence,” she said. Bejarano added, “We are working with law enforcement to ensure this threat is taken seriously and that our staff members are safe while they’re at work.”
Vice President’s Arizona Visit Amid Security Concerns
Harris plans to return to Arizona on September 27. Reports suggest a potential visit to the border is in the works. Arizona, a crucial swing state in this election, hosts 18 field offices for the vice president’s campaign, including the one in Tempe.
The city recently held a campaign event featuring Florida Democratic Rep. Maxwell Frost as a speaker. Frost’s speech focused on gun control issues. “We still have to work at ending gun violence,” he said, referencing the 2017 Parkland school shooting in Florida.
Tempe’s Importance in the Upcoming Election
Tempe, a college town surrounding Arizona State University, has a young electorate crucial to the Democratic party. A high voter turnout in the party’s favor could help secure Harris’ win in a tight race this November.
The recent incidents have not deterred the campaign’s efforts. Instead, they have highlighted the importance of safety measures and the need for continued engagement with voters in this key battleground state.
