Condemning West Coast Violence

Floor Speech

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Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, over the past year, we have witnessed unacceptable acts of violence across our country. We have watched lives and livelihoods being destroyed.

Even now, after one of the most challenging years Americans have faced in recent history, the violence continues. In just the past few days, in both Portland and Seattle, rioters smashed the doors and windows of local small businesses, violently assaulted police officers, and firebombed the local courthouse.

In January, I called on my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to take a stand against political violence. But rather than condemning these appalling acts, politicians and the media continue to turn a blind eye. They ignore, downplay, and even defend these despicable and violent actions. It is inexcusable.

When we see this violence, we must condemn it for what it is: domestic terror.

Mr. Speaker, I stand firm against all acts of violence, and I continue to call on this body to do the same.

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