CSGV STATEMENT ON SHOOTING AT FAMILY RESEARCH COUNCIL HEADQUARTERS

Washington, DC—Yesterday’s shooting at the Family Research Council headquarters in Washington, D.C. reminds us that the use of political violence—to whatever end—is always, unequivocally wrong. It is extremely fortunate that no one was killed or critically wounded during this incident, thanks to the heroic actions of security guard Leo Johnson.

Our Founders built a system of government under the Constitution where citizens—through the power of their ideas—make policy decisions in a framework that requires negotiation and compromise. They explicitly rejected the notion that “the guys with the guns make the rules,” recognizing that such a “might makes right” approach can only lead to chaos and anarchy. When our Founders observed such anarchy during armed uprisings like Shays’ Rebellion, it hardened their resolve to draft and ratify a Constitution that would obviate the need for political violence.

We must continue to approach the political process peacefully, as equals. Let us prevail by the character of our ideas and the force of our arguments, not by the barrel of a gun. We strongly condemn any and all acts of political violence. All Americans of conscience should do the same.