President Trump addressed the nation about the school shooting in Parkland, Florida, Thursday, taking a subtle yet direct aim at assertions by many on the left that gun control is the best answer to preventing future incidents.
“No child, no teacher should ever be in danger in an American school. No parent should ever have to fear for their sons and daughters when they kiss them goodbye in the morning,” Trump said. “To every parent, teacher and child who is hurting so badly, we are here for you, whatever you need, whatever we can do, to ease your pain. We are all joined together as one American family and your suffering is our burden also.”
The president said he plans to meet with families and local officials in the community to coordinate the federal response. In the meantime, extensive efforts are being made to learn everything about what happened and what led to the terrible tragedy.
“We are committed to working with state and local leaders to help secure our schools and tackle the difficult issue of mental health,” Trump said. “Later this month, I will be meeting with the nation’s governors and attorneys general where making our schools and our children safer will be our top priority. It is not enough to simply take actions that make us feel like we are making a difference, we must actually make that difference.”
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He also had a special message directed to America’s children.
“I want you to know that you are never alone and you never will be. You have people who care about you, who love you, and who will do anything at all to protect you,” he said. “If you need help turn to a teacher, a family member, a local police officer, or a faith leader. Answer hate with love, answer cruelty with kindness. We must also work together to create a culture in our country that embraces the dignity of life that creates deep and meaningful human connections.”
Additionally, the president offered words of comfort, telling those affected by the shooting: "In these moments of heartache and darkness, we hold onto God's word in Scripture: 'I have heard your prayer and seen your tears. I will heal you.'"
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