BRUNSWICK, ME – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today on the shootings that occurred in Dallas last night and St. Paul and Baton Rouge earlier this week:

“I am heartsick over the horrific incidents that occurred earlier this week in Baton Rouge and St. Paul, which underline the urgent need to address the issue of deadly force frequently directed at African American men. This has to involve law enforcement and government at all levels as well as members of minority communities.

“But vengeance, such as appears to be the case in Dallas, cannot and must not be part of the solution; violence begets violence and only leads to a downward spiral of hatred, recrimination and division.

“We grieve for the lives senselessly lost in Dallas, for this mindless attack on police officers who protect us daily and bravely risk everything on our behalf. 

“After this tragic week, we must look inward as a nation and summon our better angels in order to unite – regardless of our differences – to heal this pain and to ensure that everyone who calls America home can feel respected and safe.”

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