National Guard shooting in D.C. draws condemnation from Trump, lawmakers
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Members of law enforcement respond to a shooting in Washington, D.C., near the White House on Nov. 26. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images
President Trump, other political leaders and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle swiftly condemned the shooting in D.C. that critically injured two West Virginia National Guard members on Wednesday.
The big picture: Many leading Republicans and Democrats joined Trump in paying tribute to the service members, offering prayers and condemning violence.
What they're saying:
Trump on Truth Social called the suspect an "animal," adding: "God bless our Great National Guard, and all of our Military and Law Enforcement. These are truly Great People. I, as President of the United States, and everyone associated with the Office of the Presidency, am with you!"
Vice President JD Vance said during an address to service members while on a visit to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, celebrating Thanksgiving with troops that the shooting was "a somber reminder that soldiers, whether they're active duty, reserve or National Guard, our soldiers are the sword and the shield of the United States of America."
Former President Obama wrote on X that "violence have no place in America."
Former President Biden said he and former first lady Jill Biden were "heartbroken" about the shooting. "Violence of any kind is unacceptable, and we must all stand united against it," he said in a statement posted to his social media accounts.
House Speaker Mike Johnson said in posts on his social media accounts: "The National Guard has done heroic work this year working around the clock to make our nation's capital safe again. We are forever grateful for the swift actions of law enforcement and for all those who risk their own lives to protect everyone else."
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) wrote on X that he's "thankful for the brave law enforcement officers and first responders who swiftly apprehended a suspect," adding: "There is no place for violence in America."
Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) on X offered "thoughts and prayers" to the National Guard members.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) on X thanked "all the first responders for their quick action to capture the suspect" as he also offered prayers.
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) in a video posted to X called the shooting an "act of unspeakable violence" and said officials would "keep working to make sure that justice is served."
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) said on Bluesky: "There must be zero tolerance for violence — of any kind — against the brave men and women in uniform who selflessly serve our communities and our country. The shooting of National Guard members in Washington, D.C. is horrific and unacceptable."
Go deeper: Trump wants another 500 National Guard in D.C. after shooting near White House
Editor's note: This article has been updated with additional details throughout.
