A Sickness in Our Nation

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) released the following statement in the wake of mass shootings in El Paso and Dayton:

"There is a growing sickness in our nation. Our religious and community institutions — the very glue that holds us together — are declining as a central force in American society, while the politicization of every aspect of our lives is on the rise. These shooters turned to hatred and violence, and as a result, dozens of Americans are dead.

"These events should be classified as domestic terrorism, and I'm glad that in the case of El Paso, the FBI is treating it as such. We must better equip our law enforcement agencies to prevent these massacres before they happen. There is clearly a culture of death in America today. Violence is glorified and normalized on our screens every day. Instead of seeking professional help for mental health problems, men are being radicalized in online forums. This must stop.

"In a media culture that encourages viewing people solely through hyper-partisan lenses, and not as neighbors and fellow citizens, dangerous division and hatred of those you disagree with is the outcome. This can often lead to violent consequences, as I have personally experienced.

"These events are tragedies. Reducing them to talking points and name-calling in support of narrow political agendas only further divides our country.

"Jennifer and I pray for the people of El Paso and Dayton. May God help us and heal this great nation."