President announces that suspected assailant is dead
WASHINGTON — Condemning the shocking congressional shooting at a baseball field, President Trump announced Wednesday that the suspect has died from his wounds, and he made a plea for political unity in the wake of bloodshed.
“We may have our differences, but we do well in times like these to remember that everyone who serves in our nation’s capital is here, because. above all, they love our country, ” Trump said during remarks in the Diplomatic Reception Room at the White House.
In a message directed to Rep. Steve Scalise, the Louisiana Republican wounded in the attack, Trump said: “America is praying for you, and America is praying for all of the victims of this terrible shooting.”
Praising the actions of law enforcement officers and first responders, Trump said the suspected assailant — identified as James T. Hodgkinson, 66, of Belleville, Ill. — “has now died from his injuries after a shootout with police.
Trump noted that “many lives would’ve been lost if not for the heroic actions” of two Capitol police officers who were on the scene.
Trump addressed the nation less than five hours after the shooting that wounded Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., and others at a baseball field in Alexandria, Va., just outside of Washington. Republican lawmakers were practicing for Thursday annual congressional baseball game for charity.
White House spokesman Sean Spicer said Trump and Vice President Pence were notified shortly after the shooting and began to monitor events.
Before making his remarks, the president spoke with Scalise’s wife and chief of staff, as well as House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., and the chief of the Capitol Police, said a White House statement.
“We can all agree that we are blessed to be Americans, ” Trump said, “that our children deserve to grow up in a nation of safety and peace, and that we are strongest when we are unified, and when we work together for the common good.”
He added: “Please take a moment today to cherish those you love. And always remember those who serve and keep us safe.”
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