Udall Statement on Shootings in Dallas, Minnesota and Louisiana

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Tom Udall issued the following statement about the tragic shootings this week:

"I join all New Mexicans in offering heartfelt condolences to the families of the officers who were shot and killed in Dallas last night while protecting people who were peacefully exercising their First Amendment rights. I have profound appreciation for the men and women who put their lives on the line for the safety of our communities each and every day. The entire law enforcement community is grieving over the senseless violence that claimed lives last night, and I thank them for their service.

"While last night's shooting was monstrous and horrifying, I also share the real concerns of people in New Mexico and throughout the country about systemic discrimination by law enforcement and violence in our communities. These issues tragically were raised again earlier this week, when two African American men were killed by white officers in Louisiana and Minnesota. We've seen too many days and nights of violence -- too much of which appears to have been driven by distrust, fear or hatred. We must come together to confront the issues that are dividing us and work together to heal."