July 20, 2024
Dear Friends,
I, like so many of you, have been in a state of deep shock and horror at the violent events of last Saturday. I remain horrified and saddened by the attempted assassination of former President Trump and the murder of Corey Comperatore at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. These expressions of pure hate serve no political ideology but nihilism.
In the strongest possible terms, I reject this heinous act and I, and all Americans, must stand united in opposing this and all acts of political violence.
On my visits throughout the district as well as through contact with my office, I have heard many of you voice your concern about the deep divisions that have continued to fester and have now brought us to this chaotic moment. I believe that calm, sober leadership is so desperately needed now, and I join the voices on all sides who are currently working to lower the temperature of our political debate and raise their voices in calls for unity over further division.
To be clear, civil discussion, debate, and disagreement are all hallmarks of a healthy society. The stakes of this election remain high — and I will never shy away from discussing those stakes. But, however strong our convictions, however fervent our beliefs, we must never let our rhetoric get so heated as to incite those who might resort to violence. We all have a solemn responsibility to promote a healthier discourse, and it’s a responsibility I take seriously.
In these moments of crisis, we cannot forget our humanity and succumb to embittered despair and division. Hard as it sometimes is, we must speak out in favor of understanding and compassion, and continue to embrace hope.
The words and teachings of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. come to mind, strong and true as ever: “Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.”
We face extraordinary obstacles. But together, I know that we can overcome them as we work to build a more perfect union. I believe wholeheartedly in the promise of America. I have faith in its future and its people. I hope you do too.
As tensions remain high ahead of a defining national moment in November, let us always remember that the ties that bind us together as Americans will always remain stronger than the forces trying to tear us apart. With love for our neighbor, for our communities, and our country, we move forward.
As always, thank you for reading.
Your friend,
DID YOU KNOW?
My office and I are working to make sure you remain informed with the latest updates and recommendations from state and federal agencies. With that in mind, here is some information that may be of interest to you:
- On Tuesday, July 30th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, the Albany Stratton VA is offering a free in-person Suicide Prevention Training and Panel Discussion.
- This event, part of Operation S.A.V.E., will provide an overview of suicide in the veteran population and help attendees learn more about the risk factors for suicide.
- At the training, you’ll learn about the components of the S.A.V.E. model, including:
- Signs of suicide
- Asking about suicide
- Validating feelings
- Encouraging help and expediting treatment
- The training will be held at the Edward and Francis Gildea George Education Center, located at 1 University Place, Rensselaer, NY.
- Attendees can park in the yellow or orange parking lots, as shown on the map HERE.
- To learn more or to register for this event, click HERE.
