WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today in response to Pope Francis’s historic address before the joint session of Congress this morning:

“If the Pope has taught us anything today, it’s that we are one people, regardless of race, gender, economic status, or anything else, and that we owe to one another respect, kindness, compassion, and good will – fundamental values that transcend partisanship and politics,” Senator King said. “We would do well to not only heed the Pope’s words, but also to follow his example as we work to bring people together and solve our nation’s most pressing problems.”

Senator King’s guest, the Reverend Mike Seavey of Portland, was also present in the House gallery this morning for the Pope’s address, which was the first time in history that a Pope has addressed Congress.

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