Xavier Becerra: “I rise, as has my country, to pray for loved ones, to embrace our valiant rescuers, and to condemn the heinous and…”

“I rise, as has my country, to pray for loved ones, to embrace our valiant rescuers, and to condemn the heinous and cowardly acts of abject terrorism that we witnessed yesterday. We, the American family, have lost fathers, mothers and sons, our brother the firefighter, our sister the police officer. Mr. Speaker, Carolina, my wife and I, extend our sincere condolences to all who have suffered a loss, and our hearts and prayers are with those yet to be saved but for whom the candle of hope remains lit. To Clarisa, Olivia, and Natalia, my three daughters, and to all of the children of America, how do we explain this barbarous act of terrorism? I will not try to make sense of it. That is not possible; but from my words and deeds, from the way our country prosecutes this unconscionable crime, I hope they will remember and learn how this country lives and breathes its freedom and relentless search for justice. Perhaps then as our children grow older and wiser, they will be better prepared to preserve life and defend America's values. Mr. Speaker, Godspeed to the heroes who rushed to the disaster to aid victims and, instead, became victims. Godspeed to the courageous and tireless rescuers who work as we speak, temper our sorrow with pride and redemption, strength our resolve.”