The Tuolumne County Republican Party strongly condemns recent acts of political violence and calls on all Americans to recommit to civil discourse, respect for one another, and adherence to the rule of law.

In recent weeks, we have witnessed deeply troubling acts of politically motivated violence, including the targeted attacks today against two Minnesota state legislators. We also strongly condemn the violence that continues to be directed at local, state and federal law enforcement officers who are attempting to keep the peace at anti-ICE protests across the country.

These attacks are reprehensible and represent a dangerous breakdown in the respect and civility that should define our democratic process. Violence, intimidation, and threats — regardless of the motivation or political affiliation — have no place in the American system of self-governance.

Our nation was built on the principles of free speech, peaceful assembly, and the resolution of differences through debate and the ballot box, not through violence and destruction.

We call on Republicans, Democrats, independents, and all Americans to reject political violence in every form and to engage in respectful, constructive dialogue.

We reaffirm our commitment to the men and women who protect public safety under increasingly difficult conditions.

As Republicans, we stand firmly for the rule of law, the Constitution, and the protection of individual liberties. But we must always remember that these freedoms are safeguarded by the willingness of citizens to resolve differences peacefully and to respect the rights of others.

We hold the family and friends of Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark, and Sen. John Hoffman and his wife Yvette, all victims of recent political violence, in our prayers.