Gubernatorial Candidate Matt Murdank Alleges Assassination Attempts, Condemns Political Violence

BURTON, SAN ANDREAS (WZL)  – As San Andreas prepares for its Winter 2026 election, gubernatorial candidate Matt Murdank held a press conference at City Hall Wednesday evening, October 7, condemning political violence and urging fellow candidates to stand together in support of a free and fair election.

During the conference, Murdank revealed that he had allegedly been the target of two separate assassination attempts within just three hours of filing his candidacy for Governor of San Andreas.

According to Murdank, both groups of attackers informed him that they had been contracted to target him, delivering a message intended to force his withdrawal from the gubernatorial race. He further alleged that the first group disclosed a $50,000 payment for the attack.

Murdank claimed the individuals warned that the attacks would continue unless he withdrew from the race. Despite the alleged threats, Murdank maintained that he has no intention of abandoning his campaign and reaffirmed his commitment to participating in the upcoming election.

“I am unbowed, unbent, and unbroken.” -Matt Murdank

Police Investigation Underway, According to Murdank

During the question-and-answer portion of the conference, Rhylee Finke of Weazel News asked Murdank whether he had contacted law enforcement about the alleged attacks.

Murdank confirmed he had contacted police after the incidents and said an investigation was ongoing. However, he declined to provide additional information, explaining that he did not believe it would be appropriate to discuss further details while the investigation remained active. Instead, he emphasized that his focus remained on the State of San Andreas.

Further information was not provided during the conference about the alleged attackers, those who may have contracted them, or the status of the investigation.

A Call for Unity Against Political Violence

Murdank emphasized democracy and the principles on which San Andreas was founded throughout his address. Referencing the state’s Constitution, describing democracy and freedom as fundamental protections against intimidation, disorder, and violence.

“Today, I stand before you to condemn political violence in all its forms,” Murdank stated.

The gubernatorial candidate, who is also a civil rights attorney and managing partner at Hunt & O’Hagen, LLP, argued that intimidation and violence have no place in the state’s electoral process. “Hate has no home here,” he stated. “Justice should not be suppressed by terror. We must stand for our values; bravery, not cowardice, is the appropriate response to terrorists.”

Fellow Candidates Invited to Participate

During the conference, Murdank publicly offered Fantana and Vandertunt several opportunities to address those in attendance before acknowledging their absence. He encouraged both candidates to share their positions on political violence with the press and public when given the opportunity.

Murdank said he had difficulty contacting both candidates before the event.

State Representative candidate Matthew Jacobs was also invited to participate. Although Jacobs could not attend in person, he responded to Murdank’s invitation and provided a prepared statement, which Murdank read aloud.

Jacobs thanked Murdank for organizing the conference and encouraged residents to become more involved in their government.

“I implore you all to get involved with your government to ensure it represents you,” Jacobs stated.

Stay tuned to Weazel News for updates on this developing story.

Matt Murdank’s official press release and his prepared remarks from the October 7 press conference can be read in full below.