Washington: US Presidential hopefuls Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have postponed their respective poll campaigns in the aftermath of America’s deadliest mass shooting in Orlando, offering prayers and support to the victims of the horrific massacre.
“Because of the tragic attack in Orlando, the June 15 Hillary for America campaign event with President Obama will be postponed,” the Clinton Campaign said on Sunday.
The event in Wisconsin would have been the first joint appearance of President Barack Obama and Clinton, 68, after the presumptive Democratic presidential nominee was endorsed by the US President last week.
The former secretary of state pushed for gun control and reached out to the LGBT community.
“To the LGBT community: please know that you have millions of allies across our country. I am one of them,” she tweeted.
“I join Americans in praying for the victims of the attack in Orlando,” Clinton said in another tweet.
Presumptive Republican presidential nominee Trump, 69, also postponed one of his major campaign events scheduled for tomorrow in New Hampshire and offered words of support to the victims.
“Due to the horrific tragedy that has just taken place in Orlando, Florida, Mr Trump is postponing the rally scheduled to take place tomorrow in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. We will make it up in the near future,” the Trump campaign said.
“Mr Trump will, however, deliver a major speech at St Anselm’s College tomorrow afternoon. He looks forward to returning to New Hampshire and discussing the serious threats facing all Americans and his solutions for making this country safe again,” it added.
“Horrific incident in FL. Praying for all the victims & their families. When will this stop? When will we get tough, smart & vigilant?” Trump, the New York-based tycoon said.
Afghan-origin gunman Omar Mateen killed at least 50 people and injured more than 53 at a gay nightclub in Orlando in US’ deadliest mass shooting incident yesterday. He died in a gunfight with SWAT officers.
Obama has described the massacre as an act of terror and an act of hate. The FBI is investigating the case as an act of terrorism.
PTI