John Deaton blames Ed Markey for law office vandalism

Republican Senate candidate John Deaton has blamed incumbent Senator Ed Markey for creating a ‘toxic, dangerous climate’ following the vandalism of Deaton’s law office in East Providence, Rhode Island. Police responded to the scene on October 1, finding a shattered window; while authorities stated they do not believe the incident was targeted, an investigation is ongoing.

Deaton, a lawyer and former cryptocurrency advocate, claims Markey’s rhetoric regarding Deaton’s alleged support for Donald Trump has incited harassment against his family and staff. Deaton maintains he has never voted for Trump and characterizes the claims as ‘malicious fabrications.’

In his campaign for the U.S. Senate, Deaton describes himself as a ‘true independent voice’ who chose to run as a Republican because he felt unable to win a Democratic primary. He faces an uphill battle against Markey, who leads in recent polling with 54% support compared to Deaton’s 28%.