The Tea Party’s “Only Citizens Vote” tour bus faced vandalism in Phoenix, highlighting a troubling pattern of hostility toward conservative groups. The incident occurred just before the bus’s scheduled stops in Tucson and Scottsdale and involved the slashing of tires. Photos shared with Fox News Digital clearly depict the damage. The bus prominently displayed the message “ONLY CITIZENS VOTE,” underscoring the group’s commitment to election integrity.
Jenny Beth Martin, honorary chairperson of Tea Party Patriots Action, condemned the act as “cowardly” and an affront to those who cherish free speech and secure elections. “This act is not just an attack on a vehicle; it’s an attack on the millions of Americans who believe in free speech, civic engagement, and secure elections,” she stated. This incident affirms the group’s resolve as they continue their tour across 16 states, culminating in Washington, D.C.
The “Only Citizens Vote” initiative supports the SAVE Act, which requires proof of citizenship for voter registration, thereby tightening election security. This proposal aims to prevent states from processing national voter registration forms without proper documentation, such as a passport or birth certificate.
Regrettably, this act of vandalism is not isolated. In recent weeks, there has been a surge in attacks against Republican entities, with incidents reported across the country. The office of Rep. Mike Kelly faced graffiti that included inflammatory messages, while several GOP headquarters have also experienced vandalism.
This rising hostility coincides with concerns over increased violence within political spheres. The head of the National Republican Congressional Committee, worried about safety at public events, advised colleagues to avoid in-person town halls. Previous property damage incidents took place during heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and other political decisions.
Amid this backdrop, protesters appear to escalate their actions, targeting not just political figures but also broader symbols of conservative values. The relentless nature of these attacks is raising alarms about the safety of civic engagement, reflecting a growing trend of aggressive opposition directed at those who hold differing beliefs.
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