Western South Dakota News

U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune addressed the Senate floor to express his condemnation of a shooting incident that took place outside an event at the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C. The event was organized by the American Jewish Committee.

In his remarks, Thune stated, "From everything we know so far, it is appallingly clear that event attendees were deliberately targeted." He further noted the tragic loss of two young embassy employees who were on the verge of getting engaged and starting a life together.

Thune expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by law enforcement, saying, "I’m grateful that the suspect is already in custody – and for the help the Capitol Police provided in responding to the attack – and I know that he will be swiftly prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."

However, he acknowledged that this may provide little comfort to those whose sense of safety has been compromised. "But I suspect, Mr. President, that is little comfort right now to the many whose sense of safety has been shattered, and who are worried that they will be targeted simply because they are Jewish or Israeli," Thune remarked.

He extended his prayers to various groups affected by this tragedy: "My prayers today are with the families of the deceased, with event attendees, with the employees of the Israeli Embassy, and with all members of the Jewish community suffering in the wake of this attack."

Thune concluded his statement by affirming solidarity with those impacted: "And to the Israeli and Jewish communities here in Washington, D.C., know that we stand with you."