Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility Kinkead: Lawmakers must lead with dignity in debate

Kinkead: Lawmakers must lead with dignity in debate

HARRISBURG, Oct. 2 – Echoing PA House Speaker Joanna McClinton’s remarks on civil discourse in the House chamber Wednesday, state Rep. Emily Kinkead released the following statement:

“As lawmakers, we must never lose sight of our responsibility to lower the temperature around heated disagreements. Political violence is a real and growing threat in our country and when any elected official fails to control their behavior, they, as leaders within their community, give permission to others to do the same – or worse.

“Violence and threats are never the way to solve political disagreements. Yet, earlier this year, Minnesota Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband were assassinated because someone decided that murder was the way to address political disagreements. We are entrusted with the voices of our districts, and we should zealously advocate for our constituents. But we also must always, always respect the dignity and humanity of others – especially when we disagree. It is our responsibility as colleagues, but, more importantly, it is our responsibility as leaders in our democracy.”