RANKILIN, Wis. – Conservative State Senate candidate Julian Bradley released the following statement on Thursday in response to the nation’s unrest, protests and riots after the murder of George Floyd:
“In the United States, the rights to speak freely without fear of consequence and to assemble peacefully in large numbers are at our nation’s core. The First Amendment makes America exceptional.
“The murder of George Floyd – a senseless, cruel, and reprehensible act by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin and his colleagues – has rightfully sparked outrage, resulting in peaceful protests. Sadly, fringe groups of violent, destructive looters attempted to undermine and exploit a peaceful and just cause. These criminals harmed innocent people and devastated the livelihoods of local business owners, many of which were just recently able to reopen as a result of Covid-19.
“Injustice does not warrant more injustice.
“I’m relieved that last night’s protests across Wisconsin were largely peaceful. However, I remain concerned by the many elected officials in our state that failed a true test of leadership through five nights of looting and violence. In response to the chaos, Governor Tony Evers, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, and Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, did little more than pander to the mob, refusing to take meaningful stands against the riots.
“As an African American, please let me say this loud and clear: being appalled by George Floyd’s death while standing strong against community destruction is not racist. It makes you a proponent of law and order and an advocate for peaceful protests instead of a proponent of criminal behavior and indecency.
“I firmly believe the long-term economic and social consequences of violent acts of protest consistently hurt minorities in our communities. For the sake of people of color, small business owners, and innocent neighbors who condemn police brutality, I call on our leaders to hold those committing violent acts responsible and restore peace in our communities. We must do all we can to protect our country and ensure liberty and justice for all.”
