“First and foremost, my heart goes out to the families and loved ones of former Minnesota Speaker Melissa Hortman and Sen. John Hoffman. This tragic event is being felt across the country.

Anyone who serves in public office does so knowing they'll face scrutiny. But the escalation in attacks, rhetoric and overall temperature cannot be denied.

We’re fortunate to have incredible professionals at the Capitol and a State Police presence who do a great job keeping us safe. I don't think there's any question their jobs have become more difficult.

Information is still coming in about the Minnesota shootings. But, regardless of viewpoints or party enrollment, all Americans can agree—violence in the name of political ideology is unconscionable and the antithesis of our nation’s principles.”