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9/11/2025
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Senator Raptakis issues statement on shooting of Charlie Kirk
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Below is a statement from Sen. Leonidas P. Raptakis (D-Dist. 33, Coventry, West Greenwich) on the shooting of Charlie Kirk:
“I want to express my deepest condolences to the Kirk family. It is unacceptable for a strong nation like the United States to revert to violence over disagreements with a national figure.
On the eve of September 11, as we reflect on the loss of life 24 years ago, we were reminded once again that terrorism in all forms must never be tolerated. We in the United States must look to come together, as we have in the past, to address our problems. In the model of Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill, we should recognize that we can debate issues passionately, but afterwards we need to come together as Americans.
In a strong democracy such as ours, it is an outrage to resort to violence to send a political message or to silence an opposing viewpoint. College campuses should be havens for free speech, but too often people or groups are resorting to violent tactics to prevent people from sharing their views in a democratic forum.
We are in a situation in this country where we have lost our ability to communicate in a peaceful manner. It cannot become the norm to respond with violence because of disagreements over the issues. I pray for the Kirk family and the children.”
For more information, contact:
Greg Pare, Director of Communications for the Senate
State House Room 112
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 276-5558
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