Following a social media post from the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire suggesting it is “morally legitimate to kill” politicians who support certain tax policies, New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman Scott Maltzie released the following statement:

“Political disagreements are part of a healthy democracy, but calling for the killing of political opponents crosses a bright and unacceptable line. Violence and threats of violence have no place in New Hampshire politics or in American public life.

New Hampshire has a proud tradition of vigorous debate and strong opinions, but those debates must remain grounded in respect for the rule of law and the peaceful exchange of ideas.

The statement posted by the Libertarian Party of New Hampshire is reckless and irresponsible. Rhetoric that appears to justify violence against elected officials and candidates undermines the very democratic system that allows us to debate policy differences in the first place.

Republicans strongly oppose an income tax in New Hampshire, and we will continue to fight policies that threaten our state’s economic freedom. However, we do so through elections, persuasion, and the democratic process — not through threats or intimidation.

Political leaders and organizations should be lowering the temperature of our politics, not inflaming it. The people of New Hampshire deserve better.”