WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) led 36 Members of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus in releasing an open letter calling for an end to political violence and the reckless rhetoric that fuels it. The letter stresses that Americans must be able to express their beliefs without fear and urges leaders and citizens alike to set a higher standard for political discourse. “Democrats and Republicans from the Problem Solvers Caucus have come together united in our opposition to political violence,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-03). “We must all learn to disagree better.” “In our country, we don’t have to think the same to stand on the same side. From our founding, America has been held together not by agreement, but by the belief that every voice matters, and that our differences, when debated with respect, make us stronger,” said Problem Solvers Caucus Co-Chair Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01). “Violence and intimidation have no place in our country. Not now. Not ever. What this moment demands from us all is that we speak with respect, listen with compassion, and remember that unity doesn’t require uniformity —only a shared commitment to the ideals that make us Americans.” Thanks to our partners at Braver Angels, The Dignity Index, National Institute of Civil Discourse, BridgeUSA, and additional organizations for their support in this effort. The full text of the letter can be found here and below: As public officials who have committed ourselves to sharing our opinions and beliefs to act together for the betterment of our nation, we believe that no one in America should fear for their safety for sharing their beliefs. Everyone has the right to freedom of speech and the right to exercise that freedom – even and especially when we disagree with what they are saying. We also know that words matter. In moments of disagreement and conflict, we should model robust debate and dialogue without contempt and dehumanizing language. Contemptuous speech increases people’s fear of each other and causes social disconnection, which can lead to violence and has no place in our deliberations as those elected to serve all citizens of our country. Recognizing that communities around the nation and world have also suffered terribly from the effects of violence, America is our home. Neighbors may disagree on matters of the heart and mind, but especially in times like this, we need to turn toward each other. We stand together to say that: In America, we cannot use violence against people with whom we politically disagree. Not Charlie Kirk. Not Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark. Not Minnesota Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. Not Paul Pelosi. Not Representative Steve Scalise. Not Representative Gabby Giffords. Not Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. Not President Donald Trump. We are Americans before we are Democrats or Republicans. We must see the inherent dignity in our fellow Americans, especially when we disagree with them. You and I might not resolve our differences, but we can work together to better understand each other. Sincerely, | 