Man Attempts To Stab Rep. Lee Zeldin During Campaign Stop, Attacker Released Hours Later

Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-New York), who is the GOP nominee for New York governor, was attacked in a stabbing attempt during a campaign stop in Perinton, New York, around 8 p.m. on Thursday night.

Zeldin thanked his supporters and those who stepped in to stop the attacker.

“Thank you to everyone who reached out following tonight’s attack in Fairport,” Zeldin tweeted. “Someone tried to stab me on stage during this evening’s rally, but fortunately, I was able to grab his wrist and stop him for a few moments until others tackled him.”

The attacker was 43-year-old David Jakubonis, who was reportedly an Iraq War veteran who had been under the influence of alcohol. He was taken into custody by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

“His words as he tried to stab me a few hours ago were “you’re done”, but several attendees, including @EspositoforNY, quickly jumped into action & tackled the guy,” Zeldin said.

“Law enforcement was on the scene within minutes. The attacker will likely be instantly released under NY’s laws,” he added.

Zeldin was correct as Jakubonis was charged with a felony, but released a few hours following his arrest under New York’s controversial crime laws.