Kentucky Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action, Everytown Criticize Rep. Massie for Saying Kenosha Protest Shooter Used ‘Incredible Restraint’

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, today released the following statements criticizing U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) for defending the armed vigilante who shot and killed two men and wounded another during protests against the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin this month.

“What happened in Kenosha wasn’t ‘restraint and situational awareness,’ like Rep. Massie claims––it was murder,” said Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action. “Armed vigilantism against protesters should be condemned, not commended, especially by a U.S. representative who claims to represent Kentuckians.”

“Rep. Massie’s comments are a slap in the face to every Kentuckian who has worked to dismantle hate and white supremacy in our communities,” said Cathy Mekus, a volunteer with the Kentucky chapter of Moms Demand Action. “He should be ashamed of his comments and held accountable for condoning dangerous behavior that threatens public safety and our right to assemble.”

The shooter was identified as a white 17-year-old from Illinois who reportedly associated with a militia group. According to Vice, the shooter’s social media showed his affinity for online movements which have recently “inspired the presence of pro-cop vigilante groups at civil rights protests.” He also sat in the front row of a Trump rally in January and reportedly expressed fervent support for President Trump to his classmates. Read more about political leaders glorifying violence against protesters here