On Tuesday, members of the House Bipartisan Issue Solver Caucus released an open letter strongly condemning political violence.
The letter, which was shared with Hill, follows the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier this month and a House resolution honoring his life and contributions last week.
This letter, along with mentions of other victims of political violence, emphasizes the importance of free speech and constructive debate.
“As public servants committed to expressing our opinions and beliefs to make our nation better, we believe that no one in America should have to fear for their safety when sharing their views,” the lawmakers stated. “Everyone deserves the right to freedom of speech and to practice that freedom.”
The letter further cautions against “empty rhetoric” that could incite violence.
“We understand that words carry weight. In times of disagreement and conflict, we should demonstrate vigorous discussion and dialogue without resorting to dehumanizing language,” it notes. “Empty rhetoric fuels fear and divides society. It can result in violence and should have no place in our deliberations as elected representatives serving all citizens.”
The lawmakers remarked, “Recognizing that communities nationwide and globally are suffering from violence, America is our home. Neighbors may disagree on mental health issues, but we must confront each other, particularly during challenging times.”
The Caucus also highlighted many other Republicans and Democrats who have encountered political violence in recent years.
“We speak out together: in America, we cannot resort to violence as a response to political opposition,” they wrote. “Not for Charlie Kirk. Not for Minnesota Senator Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark. Nor Minnesota Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette. Not for Paul Pelosi. Not for Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) and Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.), who co-chaired the letter alongside members of their executive committee, including Whip Don Bacon (R-Neb.) and Greg Landsman (D-Ohio).”
In total, 36 members of the Caucus endorsed the letter.
“We were Americans first, before we became Democrats or Republicans,” the letter states. “We must recognize the inherent dignity of our fellow Americans, especially when we disagree. We may not resolve our differences, but we can strive to understand each other better.”
The Caucus consists of nearly 50 members from both parties in the House.
