Authorities have arrested an 82-year-old woman for allegedly assaulting two women because of their political beliefs.
Edmonds Police said officers responded to a report of an assault at a crossroads in Edmond, Seattle, just before 1 p.m. on Monday.
A small crowd was holding a rally in support of an unnamed conservative political figure when the elderly woman, who has not been publicly identified, approached the group and shouted at them about their beliefs, according to police.
The suspect then allegedly got up in the face of a 55-year-old woman, making comments about her clothing and skin color before pushing her and punching her in the chin.
A second woman, aged 66, stepped in between the two to intervene before the 82-year-old allegedly punched her, police said.
When officers arrived, the suspect stated that she couldn’t understand why people of color would support a specific political candidate.
She was allegedly “very animated” and even attempted to push a police officer to demonstrate how she had interacted with the women.
The 82-year-old woman allegedly showed no remorse for her actions and was arrested on suspicion of committing a hate crime.
She was booked into Snohomish County Jail.
According to police, the two victims received minor injuries and did not require medical treatment.
The altercation occurred one day before Americans went to the polls on Election Day to vote in the presidential, congressional, and down-ballot races.
Donald Trump sailed to victory shortly after polls closed, defeating Kamala Harris in a race that will send him back to the White House in January.
According to Edmonds Police Chief Michelle Bennett, the constitution protects peaceful rallies in our community, and community members should never face violence while exercising their rights.
Our officers correctly determined that this was more than just an assault and arrested the suspect on the appropriate charges.
Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen said, “I’m disheartened that this violence has occurred in our community.
“Elections play an important role in society, and freedom of expression serves as the foundation for democracy.
Community members who peacefully express political support should not face hateful violence. I’m relieved there were no serious injuries and the suspect was held accountable.”
