It should go without saying that the attempted assassination of former U.S. president Donald Trump represents an act of unacceptable political violence that should be widely condemned.

The incident has also led to questions about whether the political discourse has become too heated, although at this point nothing is indicating the gunman had subscribed to or been swayed by any sort of over-the-top rhetoric.

Regardless, it would be irresponsible for political leaders to exploit this event or use it to score political points. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what Alberta’s premier did last week. And rather than cool the political temperature here, her comments are likely to further fan the flames.

Speaking in Halifax two days after the shooting, Danielle Smith used the opportunity to point a finger at her political opponents: “The way in which conservative politicians have been characterized is outrageous . . . and I certainly hope that some of the progressive politicians here are careful of their language . . . they need to dial it........

© Calgary Herald