Louisiana's political leaders and candidates for office share their thoughts about the weekend attack at an Orlando, Florida, nightclub.

Republican U.S. Congressman John Fleming:

“My heart goes out to the family members who lost loved ones in this vicious terrorist attack. We pray for for them in this time of pain, mourning, and loss. We have lost fellow Americans in this attack, and we must stand together against the threat of ISIS and radical Islam.

This is not a time for politics, it is a time for mourning. Too many are already going out and blaming the NRA, ‘the Christian right’ or denying that radical Islam is involved or responsible. This constant drive to divide Americans is harmful and plays right into our enemy’s hands.”

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Caroline Fayard:

“The tragic and senseless terrorist act that struck Orlando, Florida yesterday has left us all searching for answers. I stand with all Americans, but particularly with my brothers and sisters of the LGBT community, in the fight to preserve dignity and our freedom from threats both foreign and domestic. Extremist ideologies, such as radical Islam, that promote hate must be met with unwavering resistance, and the killing of innocent people must stop. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the Pulse massacre and their loved ones.”

Shreveport City Council Members and Mayor Ollie Tyler have also expressed their condolences to the affected families.

We're also hearing that two people with ties to Louisiana were among the victims in the mass shooting. Louisiana Radio Network in Baton Rouge reports that 27-year-old Frank Hernandez, a former Lafayette Parish resident, was one of 49 people killed, and 39-year-old Leonel Melendez, a New Orleans native, is in a coma after being shot in the head.

 

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