The Newport Republican City Committee and the Newport Democratic City Committee issued a rare joint statement Thursday condemning the assassination of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
“This heinous act of violence has shocked and saddened our entire community, serving as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed when political discourse devolves into hostility and brutality,” the statement read.
The committees extended “our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and supporters of Charlie Kirk, and to all those who have been affected by this senseless tragedy.”
In their message, the groups stressed that “violence, in any form and from any quarter, is unacceptable and must not be tolerated.” They warned that political violence “threatens the very heart of our society. It chills freedom of speech and freedom of association and therefore the free flow of ideas.”
Calling for mutual respect and civil dialogue, the committees urged citizens to “foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding” and to “reject violence unequivocally.”
Michael W. Smith, chairman of the Newport Republican City Committee, and Susan D. Taylor, interim chair of the Newport Democratic City Committee, signed the statement, pledging collaboration “to oppose all forms of political violence” and encourage “peace and constructive dialogue.”
“Let the tragic loss of Charlie Kirk serve as a solemn call for unity and change,” the statement concluded.
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