JOINT LEADERSHIP STATEMENT ON POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN AMERICA

Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar released the following statement:

The assassination of Charlie Kirk was horrifying, completely incompatible with American values and we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.

The intense atmosphere of political violence that exists in America is not sustainable, and requires all leaders, regardless of ideology, to bring the country together. The march toward righteous reconciliation will not be easy, but it is a necessary one to prevent America from exploding.

We will vote yes on H. Res 719 which is on the floor today. Our vote is not an endorsement of the views espoused by Charlie Kirk in any way, shape or form.

We also strongly support H. Res 746, a resolution introduced by Rep. Marc Veasey that condemns the assassination of Charlie Kirk and the documented explosion of political violence that America has experienced over the last several years. The Veasey resolution has more than 100 co-sponsors, and we urge everyone to join it.

As set forth in H. Res. 719, we call upon all Americans-regardless of race, party affiliation, or creed-to reject political violence, recommit to respectful debate, uphold American values, and respect one another as fellow Americans. Political violence against anyone for any reason at any time is not acceptable.

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