Similar attacks on politicians had marred the pre-election period.
"Building an association between the attack and the head scarf issue, or my views in the pre-election period, is an even uglier approach."
Should policy-makers consider banning polls in pre-election periods as a result?
The pre-election period for this role generally involves active campaigning by students.
It is perhaps too touchy a social and political issue in this pre-election period.
However, during most of the pre-election period, Amendment 2 had a majority of voter support.
"They specifically accused us of using scare tactics on employees during the pre-election period, which we did not do," she said.
Concerns remained during the pre-election period over the number of alleged political killings.
A tough response by the Irish presidency will make an impression during this pre-election period in America.
The freedom of expression during the pre-election period could also be criticized.