NC mayor declines to speak at vigil for Charlie Kirk, people in Pinebluff upset

PINEBLUFF, N.C. (WTVD) -- There has been quite a reaction on social media about Mayor Ronald McDonald's response to a vigil invite.

ABC11 spoke with McDonald, who said his views were personal and not made on behalf of the town.

Residents shared their frustration at a town meeting.

"As a mayor, you are supposed to be acting on behalf of all the citizens of Pinebluff and make sound decisions fairly and equally on all interests for the good of the town," said one resident.

McDonald and the town council listened, but did not respond.

The residents' concerns stemmed from a screenshot of a personal email exchange, where the Moore Republic Women's group invited the mayor to an event honoring Charlie Kirk on Saturday.

McDonald replied to the invite using his personal email, stating he was not a fan of Charlie Kirk and what he stood for.

"I just hate that you, mayor, brought this shadow upon the town," said resident James Van Boskerck.

Pauline Bruno with Moore Republican Women shared a statement with ABC11:

"Like many communities throughout the United States and around the world, our community wants to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk. We are presenting a non-partisan vigil that will feature speakers, music, and prayers. Everyone is invited to attend. We invited all mayors, district commissioners, and other elected officials in Moore County to attend and participate if they chose."

"I feel for his wife and I feel for the children. There's nobody in this country today or in the past who needs to die of a gunshot of that sort or any type," said McDonald.

Some are calling for McDonald to resign.

"I was sitting in my house on my personal phone when this took place. And I apologize to the people of Pinebluff for getting them involved in this thing. But I never thought it would blow up like this," said McDonald.

McDonald, who is currently running for re-election, said he does not plan to resign. He said he will let the voters decide whether to re-elect him or not.

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