Vermont Democrats condemn Vermont RNC call to shoot protesters, state GOP chair comments

MONTPELIER — In response to VTGOP Chair Paul Dame and VT RNC Committeeman Joshua Bechhoefer’s shocking comments about the protests in California, Vermont Democratic Party Executive Director May Hanlon released the following statement:

"If you need any more proof that the modern Vermont Republican Party is simply a mouthpiece for the far-right extremist movement, look no further.

This week, VTGOP Chair Paul Dame compared the demonstrations in California against the Trump administration’s unjust targeting of immigrants to 9/11. Chair Dame’s comments are outrageous and deeply irresponsible. It trivializes the lives lost on that day, deliberately stokes fear to dehumanize immigrants, and shatters any illusion that the VTGOP holds a balanced, moderate perspective on civil rights.

Worse still, Vermont RNC Committeeman Joshua Bechhoefer has called for using live rounds to disperse protesters. Advocating for shooting at civilians is shocking. It is fundamentally un-American. Bechhoefer’s rhetoric is extremely dangerous, and even further highlights that the VTGOP has no sense of right and wrong. They support violent ideology that shows their ingrained prejudices against people who are not like them.

Vermont Republicans are not even pretending anymore. This is not the party of civility or moderation. They are a party that embraces the worst instincts of Trumpism: cruelty, fear-mongering, and the politics of intimidation.

We see it. Vermonters see it. And we all should and will call them out each time they show their true colors."

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CONTACT:

May Hanlon
Executive Director
Vermont Democratic Party
mhanlon@vtdemocrats.org