WASHINGTON DC - Today, Representative Mike Honda (D-CA) issued the following statement in response to the violence in Arizona.

"This inexplicable violence is a sad reminder of the culture of violence that prevails in this country and propagates such actions, the lack of gun control that makes such weapons so easily accessible, and the lack of sufficient available mental health services.

As this country heals from this most recent violation of our public safety and security, I hope that we take this opportunity to look closely at the systemic issues at play here and address them collectively and quickly. 

In terms of increased security for Congressional members, staffers and visitors, as a member of Appropriations Subcommittee on the Legislative Branch, I will continue to push, as I have always done, for increased support and funding to ensure that every single person coming to work for, or visit, a Member of Congress is equipped with the systems, knowledge, and awareness necessary to safely avoid, and if need be escape, all emergency situations.

In terms of my office, I am in close contact with our local law enforcement agencies and will continue operations as normal, maintaining vigilance to ensure the safety of my constituents, my staff, and myself."

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