From Violence to Unity: The Work Ahead for America

America has a gun problem. America has a problem with political violence.

This is not okay—and we can do better.

We are living through incredibly challenging times. We’ve seen yet another school shooting and the targeted shooting of a political activist on a college campus in Utah.

Our constitutional rights are meant to be protected and treasured: our right to gather peacefully, to speak freely, and to bear arms. The First and Second Amendments are important. If we need to change our gun laws to protect our children in schools, our coworkers in the workplace, and our neighbors in public spaces, then let’s have those discussions. Let’s elect leaders who will work together to create change. We don’t need to keep blaming each other and fueling anger and violence. That’s not who we strive to be as Americans.

We have work to do:

• We need sensible gun laws.

• We need to respect our immigrant neighbors who contribute with their hard work, raise families, and follow our laws.

We have secured our borders, but let’s continue working to ensure safety while holding accountable those who commit crimes. Let’s invest in law enforcement, due process, and fair punishments for those who break the law.

Let’s create immigration policies that reflect our values, welcoming immigrants who seek a better life. Right now, what we see too often is a show of force, incompetence, and mass deportations that waste tax dollars and create more problems rather than solving them.

We are America. We are a democracy. And I am hopeful we can resolve our differences and unite without political violence. What makes America great is our rule of law, our commitment to due process, and our insistence on holding people accountable for their actions.

Law enforcement in Utah set a powerful example following the recent shooting. A young man, raised in a conservative and loving family, was identified, surrendered peacefully, and will face the consequences of his actions. Evidence will be collected, charges filed, and the courts will determine guilt and appropriate punishment.

We must lead by example. Let’s create laws and policies we can all respect, uphold, and follow. Let’s lift each other up instead of tearing each other down.

Change happens when we speak out, vote, and stay engaged.

• Vote for leaders committed to sensible solutions.

• Speak up in your community.

• Support organizations working to reduce violence.

• Model respect and dialogue, even in disagreement.

The future of our democracy depends on all of us. Let’s rise to this moment—together.