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Bilirakis Statement on Orlando Terrorist Attack

June 13, 2016

Congressman Gus Bilirakis released the following statement regarding the Orlando tragedy:

"Our neighbors in Orlando remain in our thoughts and prayers. As we mourn the tragic loss of life that took place this morning, we must stay laser-focused on rooting out radicals in our own country who heed the call to radical jihad and aim to harm our friends, neighbors, and families. Protecting our homeland should never be taken for granted, and should never ever be the subject of partisan politics. I will continue to be a strong voice in Congress to fight Islamic radicalism here and abroad. As the former Chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Response and Preparedness, I had the opportunity to participate in a series of Homeland Security Committee hearings on radicalization nearly a decade ago. Then, as now, I believe we should provide our law enforcement and intelligence officers the tools they need, within constitutional constraints, to prevent the spread of incitement to violence and hunt down radicals who want to see the demise of our ideals and values. This is truly a tragedy, but our nation has proven that in times of tragedy, Americans unite and stay strong despite the evil in the world. Orlando, we are all here for you."