I, like most Butler residents, was devastated at the events that took place Saturday, July 13, 2024, at a Republican rally.

I am privileged to live in the United States of America, with the freedom to vote and believe, and say what I believe without fear of being hated. I have many friends and family on both political sides. I care for and love them all. I feel very bad for the Comperatore family and pray for healing for the community and family. However, when I heard the family refused a call of condolence from President Joe Biden, I was appalled.

Hate has over taken our country. Was everyone at the vigil Republican? Was everyone donating to the GoFundMe accounts Republican? I’m sure there were Democrats, such as myself, in the mix. Sending the family condolences and money should not be a political thing.

As Kelly McCollough said, “There is no room for hate here. There is no political opinions outside of love for the Comperatore family.”

Please people, lets go back to respecting all people, whether they agree with you or not. Hate is the No. 1 problem.

Roberta Hart,

Butler Township