“Like most Americans, I was saddened by the senseless killing of George Floyd at the hands of an out-of-control police officer, someone who was entrusted to protect the citizens of Minneapolis and instead killed a defenseless man.  My sympathy goes out to Mr. Floyd and to his family and friends.  Conduct like this is unacceptable and I hope that police officer gets the punishment that justice requires for his violation of both his duty and the law.”

“This officer’s actions, however, should not and must not undermine the public’s trust in our nation’s law enforcement.  One rogue officer is not representative of the vast majority of the men and women in blue who place their lives in harm’s way every day to keep all of us safe and secure.  Disrespect for law enforcement and our legal system leads to the very situation we have seen occurring all across America this past weekend, and that is also unacceptable.”

“Americans of all races have every right to equal treatment under the law, as guaranteed by our Fourteenth Amendment.  They also have the right to be outraged and to engage in protest when unequal protection occurs, and that is guaranteed by our First Amendment.  But far too many other people over the past few days have used these legitimate protests as an excuse for unlawful violence, looting and other criminal behavior.  These actions dishonor Mr. Floyd and the many citizens peacefully protesting his death.  I completely condemn these criminal activities.”

“Our nation, in fact our entire civilization, is built on the rule of law.  As Americans we should all be concerned by what is happening and how easily so many are willing to break the law.  I call on our political leaders to do everything they can to quickly restore respect for our laws and the trust and confidence of all Americans in our law enforcement system.  The future of our great nation depends on it.”