WASHINGTON D.C. — Last night’s attempted attack at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner underscores the need for fully resourced, mission-focused protective agencies.
Independent Women issued the following statement from Meaghan Mobbs, Director of the Center for American Safety and Security at Independent Women, on the gunman who attempted to enter the White House Correspondents’ Dinner:
“Last night, the United States was once again confronted with the unthinkable. An armed man charged a security checkpoint at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in a brazen attempt on the life of the President of the United States.
“Let us be unequivocal: there is no tolerance for political violence in this republic. None whatsoever. This is a matter of civilization itself, and every American, regardless of party or ideology, must say so clearly.
“We are profoundly grateful that President Trump, the First Lady, Vice President Vance, and all those present are safe. We owe an enormous debt to the men and women of the United States Secret Service, who once again demonstrated extraordinary courage and professionalism under fire. One agent took a bullet last night and survived because he was prepared. That preparedness is no accident. It is the product of training, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to duty. We honor him, and we honor every agent who stood in harm’s way.
“We must also speak plainly about how we arrived here, again.
“This is the second attempt on President Trump’s life in two years. In a nation that has prided itself for two and a half centuries on the peaceful transfer of power and the rule of law, that is a national disgrace. It does not emerge from a vacuum.
“For years, the temperature of our political discourse has risen to a fever pitch, stoked by media outlets and social media platforms that profit from rage, division, and the dehumanization of political opponents. When public figures and media voices treat those they disagree with as existential threats, they plant seeds that disturbed minds harvest with lethal intent.
“Freedom of speech has never meant freedom from responsibility. Leaders, journalists, commentators, and platform executives must look honestly at what they have built and what it is producing.
“A republic cannot endure if its leaders cannot gather in public without fear of assassination. We call on all Americans to reject the culture of hate that has brought us to this moment, and to recommit to the principle that our differences are settled by debate and at the ballot box.
“Finally, last night also made something else undeniably clear. The President of the United States requires a secure, purpose-built venue to fulfill the duties of his office and engage with the American public. The proposed White House ballroom is a security necessity. And the Department of Homeland Security must be fully funded to carry out its mission. Congress must act. The political games that delay critical security funding are irresponsible and dangerous.”
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