James Comer: “In recent weeks, American cities have been plagued by irresponsible, reckless violence and rioting. The violence in…”

“In recent weeks, American cities have been plagued by irresponsible, reckless violence and rioting. The violence in cities from Portland to Chicago has been out of control, requiring a Federal response to quell what has turned into full-on mob violence. This behavior has severe consequences for American life. Businesses destroyed, chaos and disruption, and unacceptable levels of violence. And what has the Democratic response been to violent outbreaks? Turning a blind eye to vandalism and destruction, along with a fresh round of calls to defund the police. At a time of rising violence, businesses being vandalized, and the lives of everyday citizens being disrupted, prominent Democratic politicians have sought to reduce the presence of American law enforcement. In calling efforts to defund the police a local decision, Speaker Pelosi has given a green light to mayors who have eagerly implemented that reckless movement. Thankfully, Federal law enforcement has stepped in to help out in cities where weak-kneed, incompetent mayors have failed to protect their citizens. Even though Federal agents have been shamelessly treated as enemies by far-left mayors, Federal reinforcements were necessary in the face of local failures. I am 100 percent in favor of peaceful assembly and protest. It is an American tradition for our citizens to speak out and to use our sacred First Amendment rights for good.…”