MS GOP, Democratic Party speak out against violence following pipe bombs sent to POTUS opposers

The Mississippi GOP and the Mississippi Democratic Party have released statements regarding explosive packages that were sent to prominent opponents of President Donald Trump.

Packages containing pipe bombs and sulfur have been sent to former President Barack Obama, former Vice President Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton, former First Lady and presidential candidate Hilary Clinton, former Attorney General Eric Holder, California Democratic Representative Maxine Waters, liberal billionaire George Soros, and actor Robert DeNiro.

Investigators say the common denominator is that all have spoken against President Donald Trump at some point.

These packages could have been detonated simply by being mishandled.

A similar package was also sent to CNN.

Mississippi GOP chairman Lucien Smith spoke against the acts of terror:

“Those responsible for the attempted attacks should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Anyone of any political persuasion who advocates or defends political violence is an opponent of American values. Our public life should include a spirited discussion of ideas, but we must be ever mindful that no matter our disagreements we are all Americans, and an attack against any of us is an attack against us all.”  

Mississippi Democratic Party chairman Bobby Moak called for vigilance against violence:

In light of all the shocking events that occurred yesterday and continue today, the Mississippi Democratic Party has encouraged all of our candidates for federal office to remain vigilant. 

The list of targets for these acts of domestic terrorism all have one thing in common with us, they are all Americans.  Some of us are old enough to remember “an attack on one is an attack on all.”   There is no room in our country for acts of aggression and terrorism. It is a reflection on all of us if we do not stand against these acts. 

It should be clear to all that words have consequences. Personal attacks on the media or those who may be on the opposite side of the political aisle are never appropriate. 

If our elected leaders will not denounce and lead this effort to stop these type actions that are occurring then it is up to us individually to pick up the yoke of leadership. Stand for your political views, that is our history, but not in a demeaning or callous way that stirs some to follow a dark path they somehow believe appropriate due to a political position. 

Remain vigilant. Be civil. 

The manhunt continues for whoever is responsible for mailing the bombs.

Congressman Bennie Thompson also called for civility following the attacks:

“I am thankful that those that were affected by today’s attacks acted with quick vigilance and, at the current time, no one was hurt. We thank the first responders and law enforcement for their quick response and heroism.  To be clear, these targeted attacks were acts of terrorism.  We must work to counter these forces of terror and hate, no matter the source.  Given the partisan nature of these attacks, it is time for the President to end his incessant political attacks and condoning of violence, including on the press.”