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'A New Low.' Effigy Of Kentucky Governor Hung Outside Capitol

AP Photo/Bryan Woolston

Protesters at a pro-Second Amendment rally reportedly hung an effigy of Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear near the state's Capitol building Sunday, prompting bipartisan uproar.

Louisville Courier-Journal reporter Sarah Ladd tweeted images of the effigy hanging from a tree close to the Capitol. Media outlets report demonstrators also gathered at the nearby Governor's Mansion and called for the Democrat to come out.

The effigy had the Latin phrase "sic semper tyrannis" which translates to "thus always to tyrants" — written on it.

Lawmaker in both parties have been quick to condemn the action, with Kentucky House Democrats calling it the "logical conclusion" of "hateful rhetoric" heard during previous anti-shutdown rallies.

"This is a new low and it is disgusting and wrong," top Senate Democrat Morgan McGarvey tweeted. "I wish I were more surprised but this vitriol comes from the top. I hope Republican leaders join me in condemning violent threats against any elected official."

The state Republican Party said the act has "no place in Kentucky's political discourse." In a statement, GOP House Speaker David Osborne said he was outraged by an "act of hatred" that can "only cause harm."

The Kentucky State Police did not immediately return a request for comment by WUKY.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more.

Josh James fell in love with college radio at Western Kentucky University's student station, New Rock 92 (now Revolution 91.7). After working as a DJ and program director, he knew he wanted to come home to Lexington and try his hand in public radio.