Rep. Jared Golden (D-Maine) signed on to a statement from the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus condemning political violence in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination, while denouncing debate with “dehumanizing language.”
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“Everyone has the right to freedom of speech and the right to exercise that freedom–even and especially when we disagree with what they are saying. We also know that words matter. In moments of disagreement and conflict we should model robust debate and dialog without contempt and dehumanizing language,” says the letter.
“Contemptuous speech increases people’s fear of each other and causes social disconnection, which can lead to violence and has no place in our deliberations as those elected to serve all citizens of our country,” it continued.
The letter emphasized that everyone should be able to exercise the right to free speech without fear, while also suggesting that dehumanizing language and contemptuous speech from elected officials lead to violence.
The letter did not make it clear whether it was criticizing alleged contemptuous speech from people like President Donald Trump or attacking left-wing politicians like Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), who criticized Kirk and his widow following his death.
The letter also strangely refers to communities around the world and across America that have faced violence, without linking that to politically motivated attacks.
“Recognizing that communities around the nation and world have also suffered terribly from the effects of violence, America is our home. Neighbors may disagree on matters of the heart and mind, but especially in times like this, we need to turn towards each other,” it said.
The caucus referenced violence against Kirk, President Trump, Paul Pelosi, and Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-Penn.).
The bipartisan caucus notably avoided tying political violence to any particular party or movement, despite the apparent uptick in politically motivated attacks from left-wing activists.
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Rep. Golden has previously spoken out against political violence, directly addressing the assassination of Kirk.
“If someone can be shot for views you detest, then they can be shot for views you hold dear. That’s why a free nation cannot tolerate political violence. My prayers are with Charlie Kirk and his family, and I am grateful for the speed and heroism of first responders,” he said at the time of the shooting.
Golden’s Republican opponent, former Gov. Paul LePage, has also issued statements condemning political violence.
“Friday night I joined hundreds of people in Augusta to celebrate and honor the life of Charlie Kirk. Charlie dedicated his life to encouraging young people to use their voice. In his memory, we must continue to be bold and courageous in our convictions. We must have the bravery to stand for what we believe in. America is at a crossroads, and I pray that we choose the path stops the violence,” he said on X.
