Lafayette Reporter

MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today issued a statement regarding the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa.

"Why? That's what most Americans are asking themselves today, 'Why did President Trump almost lose his life?'"

Kennedy expressed the gravity of the situation: "First, there aren’t words in English, it seems to me, to describe how horrible the attempt on President Trump's life was. I know it could’ve been worse, but it was really, really bad. And, inevitably, Americans today, as I said, are asking themselves, 'Why?'"

He addressed broader national concerns: "Look, America hasn't been happy for a while, and this crosses all political spectrums. It costs more to live in our country today. Many people on both sides of the political spectrum are upset about the open border. Crime is... still bad. People are scared. They see the rise of China and the rise of Iran and the rise of Russia, and they instinctively know that [those regimes’] domination creates a world that's not safe for democracy or America."

Kennedy emphasized patience and unity in finding answers: "I don't have an answer for why, but what I will respectfully suggest is that we wait and try to figure out why together. Don't make assumptions. Don't jump to conclusions."

"I've already heard some people saying, 'Well, the shooter was left-wing,' or 'the shooter was a right-winger,' or 'it was all political.' We just don't know. Maybe he wasn’t left-wing or right-wing. Maybe he was just a broken wing. Maybe he was a nut. Maybe he was mentally ill."

Addressing criticism towards government officials over security lapses at the event: "I've also seen people pointing fingers at our government officials about how could they have allowed this to happen. Well, the American people deserve answers to that, but let's wait and get the facts."

Kennedy concluded with a message of solidarity: "So I just wanted to say that—it was in my head and on my heart—to the people of America and the people of Louisiana: We'll figure this out together. In the meantime, let’s all respect each other’s humanity."

Senator Kennedy also extended his condolences to Corey Comperatore's family; Comperatore attended the rally with his family and died protecting his wife and daughter.

"Becky and I are praying for the family of the attendee who died this evening at Pres. Trump’s rally as well as for the quick recovery of all others who are injured," said Kennedy Saturday as he thanked God for protecting Pres. Trump and others that evening.