August 13, 2008
Posted: 03:39 PM ET
CNN affiliates report that Arkansas Democratic Party Chairman Bill Gwatney was shot.
CNN affiliates report that Arkansas Democratic Party Chairman Bill Gwatney was shot.

(CNN) — The chairman of the Arkansas Democratic Party died Wednesday, hours after a shooting at the party's headquarters, police said.

Chairman Bill Gwatney died at 3:59 Wednesday afternoon after a gunman entered his Little Rock office and shot him several times in the upper body, Little Rock Police Lt. Terry Hastings said.

Authorities confirmed the news shortly after former President Clinton and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton released a statement expressing their condolences.

Full Story

Filed under: Democrats


Robert   August 13th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

To all who think that the DNC and Obama walk on water…….cite just one rule that the DNC rules committee used to steal votes and delegates from Clinton and gave them to Obama in Michigan - when his name was not on the ballot………………………….just one rule fools!!!!!

So when I say that the DNC and Obama have angered millions….it is the millions of United States citizens who clearly understand the roll of the Rules Committee, the cheating that went on within that meeting, the pushing down our throats of Obama, and the unDemocratic policies and positions that Senator Obama has taken. Since when was it a Democratic doctrine that votes should not count - until it was clear that it would not jeopardize his 'win'. That is unDemocratic….! Aside from that - he did not win anything yet - it takes 2025 in this case delegates to be acquired and neither Obama or Clinton got that. He is only the presumptive nominee - PRESUMPTIVE - got it ?

bridgette   August 13th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I think anyone who says Obama will try to play the race card on this is sick. I think that this person was unstable and I don't think it matters if he was a Democrat nor Republican this guy was just a nut. I think we need to step back from politics sometimes and recognize the human side of things.

Scott Tucson   August 13th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Maybe it's a case of some jealous hubby shot ing another cheating Democrat?

Andrea   August 13th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Here come the crazies! God bless us all!!!

Richard   August 13th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Obama's camp probably had something to do with it. They wanted more publicity from CNN!

Richard   August 13th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

It was probably an OBAMA supporter thinking the Clintons were there!!!!!

carepi   August 13th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

who did this? and uneducated, unemployed, trailer park redneck republican who only cares about his pick up truck and his gun, ohh and obviously who does not ike blacks nor their party affiliation…

EBC   August 13th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

WHAT'S THE MATTER WITH YOU PEOPLE?????

A man has been shot, NO ONE deserves to be shot. Jesus, what a bunch of SICKOS!!!

My prayers go out to Chairman Gwatney and his entire family.

clacy   August 13th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

The knee- jerk trash posted here is more of a concern than who did the shooting. MAYBE it's not politically motivated. People hurt people at their place of work because they know they will be there. They hurt them with guns and knives and bombs and their fists. So get off your agenda and try caring for the victim and their family. My first post and my last.

Tracy---Indianapolis, IN   August 13th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

To Robert

What does Obama have to do with this? Stop blaming Obama for everything, if you don't like him that's fine but ENOUGH ALREADY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama 08

L. W.   August 13th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

We have no idea the motive in this shooting–it could be a personal issue between 2 people and have nothing to do with politics. However, I like many people, strongly suspect this has to do with a black man being nominated for president. As a spouse of a journalist who travels with Senator Obama I fear for life of Senator Obama. To that point, I believe:
Every person who tells a racist joke, every person who laughs at a racist joke has blood on their hands if the Senator is attacked. It is not acceptable to stand by and let other people continue to perpetuate stereotypes. It's time to get with the program people. The next time someone tells a racist joke, uses the "N" word, stand up and tell them "not on my watch you don't". The battle against racism will never be won if white people continue to say, "oh let old uncle johnnie have his fun, it's not hurting anyone". That's a load of crap. It is hurting people, every time a child hears these things it gives them the pre-requisition of having a prejudice where before there was none.

Phyllis/ PA   August 13th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

CLOSE THIS SITE DOWN. IT IS ONLY ADDING FUEL TO THE FIRE.

Unity   August 13th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Oh my!

The Clinton-istas never cease to shock me with their hatred.

First, they write that Ted Kennedy got what he deserved when he was diagnosed with brain cancer because he endorsed Barack Obama.

Then, some wrote that Tim Russert's death by heart attack was what he deserved for asking Hillary tough questions during a debate.

Now, they are somehow blaming a shooting of a man who probably was a Hillary supporter on Barack Obama.

The Clinton-istas really take your breath away.

Silent independent   August 13th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

People, People…please…
"was he a democrat?" "was he a republican?" "this is what America has become under Bush?" "…a country that lives by the gun…"

Sheesh… Some nut-job shoots someone and you've got to make it about more than that.

How about sympathy for the victim, his family, and due process for the nut-job. End of Story.

Foreign Observer   August 13th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Shari, NY," which world are you referring to, exactly, when you write that "
I used to praise the U.S. for running violence fre elections unlike other places in the world" — does it include places like Denmark or Germany? And which US country might it be you're talking about? Does "Bobby Kennedy" ring a bell?

Terri   August 13th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Probably a Hillary supporter ! Those people are crazy

Go Obama

Debby   August 13th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Where is the unity???????

ANGIE   August 13th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Aint arkansas a very strong republican state???

Joy, DC   August 13th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

What is going on in Arkansas? My prayers are with this man and his family.

What if?   August 13th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Robert and other who are mistaken….that isn't the reason, one of our candidate made it a point to remind people about a tragic day in 1964. Let's STOP blaming Obama for everything…Pleaseeeeeeeeeeee!

Truth be told I don't think any one in today's time would do this without thinking they were giving someone support.

Sad   August 13th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

First I would like to let the family of Mr. Gwatney know that my thoughts and prayers are with them during this terrible time.

Second I would like to comment on the messages about Mr. Gwatney below. The words are harsh, uneducated and insensitive. At this point there is no word on why the shooter came there and asked for Mr. Gwatney before shooting him. Whatever the reason, this is no time to speculate why…especially when it comes to political views. Please discontinue all comments about gun laws, political views, and other suspicions.

C Terry   August 13th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

FYI: The shooter also went in the Baptist Convention Headquarters (few blocks away) waving his gun around as well. A witness said he mentioned losing a job…this may have nothing to do with politics at all.

Joe Kiloz   August 13th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Barack Obama, uniter ?

Erica, TX   August 13th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Stop with the 18 million myth. Get informed, read the news blogs, Hillary went down because she hired incompetent people to run her campaign. I would love to see a woman become President, but she needs to know how to run a campaign before she can run the country.

OBAMA SUPPORTER IN IOWA   August 13th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Maggie Muggins From Selwyn   August 13th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Hey America is a country that lives by the gun so when people shoot people it isn't a surprise cause that's what guns are designed to do.

There are hunters, target shooters and collectors of guns but the majority of people seem to think everyone should be armed to the teeth for self protection. Well self protection will only work if you get off the first shot.

Tony   August 13th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Obviously another deranged Republican who knows come November they Republicant's are OUT!

John R.   August 13th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Can't say I'm surprised either. As a former Democrat, I am disgusted how the Democratic Party ignored the voting process and pushed Obama on us.

He is not presidential.

He is not qualified.

He is immoral.

He is spineless.

I hope Obama is happy. At least 18 million Americans denied the right to democracy.

One can only imagine what lies in store once Obama is propped into the Presidency by his handlers.

DR. YES   August 13th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

i hate living in this state.they are more racist here than anywhere.i'm white ,so i know it!i hear things everyday.i even got called a muslim for wearing an obama hat!i dont care!these people are cowards for attacking fellow americans.this doesnt surprise me.sad sad and evil!

jo   August 13th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

get well soon sir.

Sprayem [youtube name]   August 13th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Obama is not going to win Arkansas. This is clearly some incident that has nothing to do with politics.

Foreign Observer   August 13th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I'm reading the comments and feel both my jaw and my stomach dropping. Some of you are blaming a man's shooting on the fact that Hillary lost the primaries? Truly? It's so bizarre and so deeply wrong and so incredibly stupid that the very thought that you might be of voting age sends shivers down my spine.

guythegood   August 13th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Was Dick Cheney out huntin' ?

Shari, NY   August 13th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I used to praise the U.S. for running violence free lections unlike other places in the world, and I hope this incident will not be repeated so that I can continue to hold this country in high esteem. People seem to be getting desperate because of their own fears which might come to fruition. I ask god to protect politicians on both sides, and I hope that whoever wins will do something about the proliferation of guns.

dollorbil   August 13th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

This doesn't sound like a political hit. It will probably turn out to be jealousy or money motivated. Was he a womanizer?

Shari, NY   August 13th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I used to praise the U.S. for running violence fre elections unlike other places in the world, and I hope this incident will not be repeated so that I can continue to hold this country in high esteem. People seem to be getting desperate because of their own fears which might come to fruition. I ask god to protect politicians on both sides.

Abby   August 13th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Matt-NE, i hope you're joking. if not, there is no hope for you.

Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia   August 13th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Does CNN ever feel by the comments that were posted, that most Americans are insensitive to the shooting? Speedy Recovery to the victim.

Lesley   August 13th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

This is disgraceful. Keep up the attack ads McCain and generate more hate out there! Nice work.

aliou FL   August 13th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Any surprise that the party that a party which supports war and violence should be shouting its way to the white house?

Jim   August 13th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This is more motivation to go out there in November and VOTE! I cannot wait until November, do not let this scare you, make your stand and Vote in november, do not stay home, no matter what party you are from, do not let this scare you!

Praetorian, Fort Myers   August 13th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

to: dononvansbrain:

What a horrible thing to say. Are you so ignorant you are note aware the amongs conservatives rule of law and respect for the political views of others is fundamental to carrying the card.

Shame on you–for painting millions of people who only want the best for America as radical right wing killers. You are despicable!!

John Hussein Karsten   August 13th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

The shooter must be a religous conservative right wing fella…and you know it was folks.

Didn't this happen a few weeks ago at that church?????

Matt-NE   August 13th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Good Lord, the Obama camp will do anything for a distraction from Obama having to deal with facts and real problems.

First the Edwards thing, now this. Heck, we're only halfway through the Obama's vacation, what else are you going to throw at us Obama??

Sick & Tired of Nobama   August 13th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

From what I hear he was a delegate for Hillary. WOW…. you make the call, probably not a republican. The DNC is pretty desparate.

Dylan in CA   August 13th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

What do Republican rednecks do when they get mad at those durn Liberals? …They shoot people.

For the second time now this summer. What a shame.

David, Tampa, Fl   August 13th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

What's wrong with America? Nothing. We are all mice running amok in an over crowded Skinner Box. Experiment brought to us by our political, business and religious leaders. Hope you twits are satisfied.

sabdra   August 13th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

This will not stop our march toward being the united country that we can be. May God Bless all!

OBAMA 08

Praetorian, Fort Myers   August 13th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

I do hope this was just a random crime of opportunity and not some wacko's idea of leveling the political landscape–or pay back. The latter reason would substantiate how barbarous the world depicts our nation and it's people.

A true hero–who appears to be willing to pay the ultimate price for his beliefs. Hooray for your bravery–and Godspeed in your recovery!!

Jim   August 13th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

I swear if this is one of the PUMA'S….

AV   August 13th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

The 18 million is a myth made up by the Clinton's. There is no way to prove 18 million people voted for her that’s why she started that rumor. Also if this is true then why didn't she win?

lil   August 13th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Headline news
This is not a joke this is a person life you are talking about.
Sen Obama has been getting threats but you never heard him make
mention of them.
Have some compation for the persons family who was shot. And dont

donovansbrain   August 13th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

The masks are dropping, folks. The GOP would like nothing better than to shoot everyone who still believes in the rule of law in this country. Bet this nut's house is also filled with tracts about 'Liberals are Traitors' and 'Voters are Traitors' and ' Liberalism is a Mental Illness." Reality check: shooting someone because they disagree with you is a mental illness. Here you see Republican Conservatism at its finest.

Andy   August 13th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

What's appalling here is that the lunatic fringe on the left are once again blaming Repuiblicans for this. It's amazing how far Bush Derangement Syndrome has gone.

Since you want to make up stories about how this is somehow a Republicans fault, try this. The guy came in and shot the Democrat because he was cheating with his wife. Since that seems to be something Democrats do.

Maybe just wish the man a speedy recovery and leave politics out of it.

Pepou   August 13th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Enough of the 18 million myth ! The great majority of them (the intelligent ones) will vote Obama, not tfor he woman who mismanaged a quarter of a billion $$ in her campaign and cried sexism afterwards.

linda from South Dakota   August 13th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

ok, we can all slam,, each other on things and we cant contol anything by ourselves,, so lets pray this campaign is a safer one and lets get down to business,, there will always be "crazy , disgruntle" people in this world, but lets not add to that number,, my vote is for obama because i believe hes true in what he says,, he doesnt bounce like mccain who, in my books, will follow bush's plan. I personally dont agree with mccain nor bush,, but i have the future to look forward to and i hope its alot better than the past. the closer we get to voting,, the wilder people get,, but if we maintain a positive attitude throught this, the less voilence there will be,,, just be glad this person is in custody and pray there are no more incidents like this,,,,go obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obama supporter:White, 60 year old woman   August 13th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

With this sad shooting and the comments on this blog so far, one can only conclude that American democracy is in deep trouble.

Oh Boy!!!???   August 13th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Well, if you believe McCain and his pitch, the antichrist must die.

It is so sad to see that there are folks in this country that will sit by and say, oh it is so sad that multiple attempts to attack Dems and Obama will be made.

What these idiots are upset about is that it won't end this way too soon!!!
They are for this kind of behavior but hide behind the shame, shame on you statements.

Get this man a uniform and off to Georgia, Eh Johnny???

Republican for Obama   August 13th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Sick and Tired:

So we should disenfranchise the 18Million that didn't agree with you then it will be okay right?

Obamalism   August 13th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Wow, you people how no idea who shot him and what his motives were, much less if it was politically motivated.

Kat   August 13th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

and the shooter isnt in custody, according to our local news, he was shot and killed after a short car chase.

Rachelbsw   August 13th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

May god bless all the candidates and keep them safe.

Robert, are you blaming Obama for some wack job shooting up a party head quarters? Seriously…

Enough   August 13th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

This is so sad. Campaigns that spew hate and fear do nothing but provide validation for nutts to carry out stupid, mindless acts.

Kat   August 13th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

How can you make claims like "of course, its Arkansas"? Are you serious? How dare you make those remarks. I live in Little Rock and that is highly offensive. It doenst matter WHERE it was, an innocent man was shot!

Trudie, MD   August 13th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Sounds like Bill and Hillary Country. They just won't play nicely.

Obama 08

Enough   August 13th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

This is so sad. Campaigns that sew hate and fear do nothing but provide validation for nutts to carry out stupid acts.

Tom, MO   August 13th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Excuse me Robert, what do you mean Senator Obama has upset millions. Try the Clintons, staying in the race in spite of the fact that Hillary could not win it MATHEMATICALLY.

Perhaps all of your cylinders aren't working?

t   August 13th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

maybe we shou.ld wait for the facts before mudslinging

Mike   August 13th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Good news is that's one less vote for McCain.

proud army and navy mom   August 13th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

cnn, could you please have more infor before you post stories. Was the man a democrat?

was he shooting at any particular person or a whole group of people? Please investigate before rushing to make the next news cycle.

LS   August 13th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Wait until it get's closer to November, that's when a lot of the horrible people are going to start coming out of their gutters. Just Horrible.

Why should the good people have to suffer, or be threatened because of the people who were brought up by corrutive upbringings and hateful teachings of their obvious worthless parents.

D   August 13th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Party Partisanship goes out the window when someone's life is put in danger. It's not about "Senator Obama and the DNC have upset millions". I'm a Republican and this isn't the time for party partisanship. I wish the person that was shot a full speedy recovery. God bless them and their families.

Chips   August 13th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Lord protect and bring this person back to full recovery.

Sick & Tired of Nobama   August 13th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Not surprised, The DNC will be responsible for this country burning to the ground. You cannot disenfranchise 18 million people and not be expected to pay the consequenses.

Kelby from Houston, TX   August 13th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I wish the person that was shot a full and speedy recovery.
God, please protect all of the candidates and their families

WHO did it? (name age affiliation) WHY did they do it? (cause motivation intent) You should not be allowed to post an article that is 2 sentences long. A little bit of information can be quite dangerous

America at Its Best   August 13th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

This is an example of what this country has become under the John McCain and the right winged republican party. Freedoms are challenged and people feel it is OK to attack a party headquarters in support of a party that encourages war and violence in its words.

Judgement over experience   August 13th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

was it a republican who did the shooting?

Robert   August 13th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Unfortunately, I think this is just the beginning. Senator Obama and the DNC have upset millions….some of which don't have all cylinders working. My best wishes go to the DNC Arkansas Chairman.

somoonesux   August 13th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

The solution is obviously to get more guns in the hands of more people. We will all be safer then.

HEADLINE NEWS   August 13th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Obama will claim it's race related and start playing his Ace in the Hole again…

Then he will follow more of McCain's ideas in an apparent "Policy Shift"…

CT voter   August 13th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Wow…republican trash…trailor park trash…

Abby   August 13th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Oh my God! I wish the person that was shot a full and speedy recovery.

God, please protect all of the candidates and their families. Thank you!

v.a.   August 13th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

of course, it's arkansas

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

Follow us on Twitter

CNN on TwitterGet Ticker updates the moment they appear online via the Web, SMS, or instant messages.
Follow politicalticker

Categories
CNN Comment Policy: CNN encourages you to add a comment to this discussion. You may not post any unlawful, threatening, libelous, defamatory, obscene, pornographic or other material that would violate the law. Please note that CNN makes reasonable efforts to review all comments prior to posting and CNN may edit comments for clarity or to keep out questionable or off-topic material. All comments should be relevant to the post and remain respectful of other authors and commenters. By submitting your comment, you hereby give CNN the right, but not the obligation, to post, air, edit, exhibit, telecast, cablecast, webcast, re-use, publish, reproduce, use, license, print, distribute or otherwise use your comment(s) and accompanying personal identifying information via all forms of media now known or hereafter devised, worldwide, in perpetuity. CNN Privacy Statement.
Home  |  World  |  U.S.  |  Politics  |  Entertainment  |  Health  |  Tech  |  Travel  |  Living  |  Business  |  Sports  |  Time.com
Podcasts  |  Blogs  |  CNN Mobile  |  Preferences |  Email Alerts  |  CNN Radio  |  CNN Shop  |  Site Map
© 2008 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved.
Powered by WordPress.com