Ohio Senators React to Dallas Police Shootings

by Michelle Faust

Condolence statements from Ohio politicians have poured in for the victims of violence in Dallas, Baton Rouge, and Minnesota, the state’s two U.S. Senators are no exception.

Republican senator Rob Portman released a statement expressing horror and heartbreak over the attack that killed five police officers in Dallas Thursday night.

Saying quote: Police officers risk their lives every day to ensure that others can live, and even peacefully protest, in safety. Portman says he and his wife will pray for the victims and their loved ones (read full text below).

At a Friday event in Cleveland, Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown expressed similar grief for officers, Alton Sterling, and Philando Castile—two black men killed by police in separate incidents this week.

"Our country is surely too violent too many young people have died by homicide in our community. Too many police officers lives have been in danger," said Brown.

Brown also spoke about a need for stronger gun restrictions and more funding for training officers.

Here is the full text of Senator Rob Portman's statement:

“The scene in Dallas last night was both heartbreaking and chilling. Police officers risk their lives every day to ensure that others can live, and even peacefully protest, in safety. To watch police officers be shot for doing their job, for protecting innocent people, is horrifying. Like everyone else, Jane and I are praying for the fallen and wounded officers and their families, friends, and colleagues. As for those who perpetrated this vicious and deliberate attack, they must be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”