CINCINNATI — Americans are once again grappling with the emotional toll left in the wake of the nation's latest mass shooting. This time, 21 people are dead including 19 children after an 18-year-old opened fire at Robb Elementary in Uvalde, Texas. The gunman is also dead, investigators said.
As we continue to learn more about the circumstances surrounding this tragedy, many leaders from across the Tri-State are sharing their thoughts on social media.
Ohio
Governor Mike DeWine (R)
Governor DeWine ordered all U.S. flags across the state to be flown at half-staff until May 28 to honor the victims
Governor DeWine issued the following statement regarding today's tragedy in Texas. pic.twitter.com/7AowO2J0id
— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) May 24, 2022
U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D)
How many times are we going to allow this to happen?
⁰I'm at a loss. The inaction of a handful of politicians in Washington and state legislatures continues to cost us lives, mass shooting after mass shooting.My heart is with the victims' families in Uvalde.
— Sherrod Brown (@SenSherrodBrown) May 25, 2022
Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval (D)
We are sick and tired of tragedies going unanswered. How many children have to be taken from us before leaders step up and protect them from guns? https://t.co/Mt6UiVmGIM
— Aftab Pureval (@AftabPureval) May 25, 2022
U.S. Rep. Warren Davidson (R)
"Our nation mourns and grieves as we contemplate the horrible act of evil that occurred in Uvalde, Texas - another in a series of mass murders. People are our greatest treasures and acts of despair are ravaging our young people - young men in particular. Mass murders, violent crime, suicide, and fatal overdose (now the leading cause of death for 18-45-year-olds) are surging. This horrendous toll on our society is unbearable. Let us pray for comfort and healing for the families and community as they mourn the loss of their loved ones. As our country navigates how to better keep our communities safe, we cannot resort to the same tried and failed political and emotional tropes that pull attention away from the despair that drives the doers of evil deeds. We must stay based in facts, rightfully emphasize the need for mental health resources, and address the motivations behind such horrendous acts. Finally, government cannot implement a spiritual solution; however, we must recognize that these acts of despair often stem from and always inflict spiritual wounds. Lord, heal our land."
U.S. Rep. Steve Chabot (R)
“The tragedy that occurred in Texas is beyond heartbreaking. We need to continue to strengthen and secure our schools and address our nation’s mental health crisis, so that no child in this country has to face this type of dangerous situation. The brave actions of our heroic first responders, especially the border patrol officers, helped prevent this horrific situation from becoming even worse.”
U.S. Rep. Brad Wenstrup (R)
"The school shooting in Uvalde, Texas, is sickening in every way, shape, and form -- a tragedy that is unspeakably heartrending for those parents and students, and our entire nation. Sadly, this is not the first time we have witnessed such a stomach-churning event. As someone who was targeted by a deranged gunman at the Congressional baseball shooting, I know that there is a place for debate on sensible actions we can take to protect our communities while at the same time respecting Constitutional rights. But I also think we need to take a hard look at the deeper cultural issues that are behind these events. Examining and understanding what is going wrong within our homes, our society, and our communities that would lead a person to act out in such violent measures might just might enable us to stop the repeat of these horrifically painful events year after year."
Senator Rob Portman (R) has not spoken about the shooting. WCPO has reached out to his office for a statement.
Kentucky
Governor Andy Beshear (D)
As a parent, it’s hard to comprehend the devastating loss in Texas today. This senseless act of violence is unacceptable and should be condemned. These were all children of God, gone too soon. Kentucky stands with all those mourning and we hold them close in prayer. ^AB
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) May 24, 2022
Senator Mitch McConnell (R)
Horrified and heartbroken by reports of the disgusting violence directed at innocent schoolkids in Uvalde, Texas. The entire country is praying for the children, families, teachers, and staff and the first responders on the scene.
— Leader McConnell (@LeaderMcConnell) May 24, 2022
Rep. Thomas Massie (R)
Massie re-tweeted the below statement advocating for arming school teachers.
Another School Shooting in a Place where teachers and staff were banned from carrying guns: Robb Elementary School in the Uvalde, Texas CIS
— John R Lott Jr. (@JohnRLottJr) May 24, 2022
NO SHOOTING WHERE teachers and staff armed. @RWPUSA do you check these things before you post?https://t.co/L81xO7PCQw https://t.co/e4EjVf96pg
Indiana
Governor Eric Holcomb (R)
“Another unfathomable school shooting, this time in southwest Texas, has shattered and shaken the lives of families, a community and country. This is a horrific reminder that we have to be ever-vigilant and never let our guard down in our efforts to keep our schools safe. We have the means and the financial wherewithal to fund investments to keep students safe and secure while in school. I‘d ask all Hoosiers to take a moment to honor the loss that so many family and friends are feeling in the tough times ahead.”
Senator Todd Young (R)
I am deeply saddened by the horrific shooting today at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas. Our nation mourns the innocent lives taken in this senseless tragedy.
— Senator Todd Young (@SenToddYoung) May 25, 2022
Senator Mike Braun (R)
Horrified by the senseless murder of 14 children and a teacher in Texas. My heart is with the parents and the community bearing this unimaginable anguish.
— Senator Mike Braun (@SenatorBraun) May 24, 2022
Governor Eric Holcomb (R) and Rep. Greg Pence (R) have not spoken about the shooting. WCPO has reached out to their offices for a statement.
WCPO will update this story when representatives respond to our request.
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