“We are living in challenging political times and Wednesday’s assassination of Charlie Kirk has only served to further polarize many in the community. The two of us disagree on many policy and political issues, but we agree on these two points: violence is never the answer to disagreements, and the only way we can stop the violence is by working together to bring down the temperature of political rhetoric.

Now is the time for public officials and advocates to step back and think about how rhetoric impacts and influences the people around us. As leaders of our respective parties and to the leaders of our government, it is imperative that we work together on this issue. Violence is unacceptable whether against a Republican or a Democrat or any one of any political belief because we disagree with the opinions they hold.  We bring about change through debate, discussion, and at the ballot box.

On this day, the anniversary of one of the greatest tragedies our nation has ever suffered, we are reminded that America is at its greatest when we work together. 

The task is not an easy one, but America is worth the effort.”