COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Two Republican lawmakers want to expand Ohio’s hate crime definition in response to the murders of political commentator Charlie Kirk and Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman.

“Political violence is unacceptable in all circumstances... ,” said Rep. Jack Daniels, a Summit County Republican. “This bill sends a clear message. Violence has no place in our politics.”

His bill, which he’s co-sponsoring with fellow GOP Rep. Josh Williams from Lucas County, would make politically motivated murders aggravated murders, punishable by life without parole and eligible for the death penalty.

Under Ohio law, aggravated murder applies in limited circumstances . It covers killings committed during another felony, such as kidnapping or rape, cases where the victim is under 13, or w

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