The morning following the death of 17 high school students and teachers killed during a school shooting in Florida, President Donald Trump shared his comments on the tragedy. “Today I speak to a nation in grief,” he said, addressing the country through a televised statement.
“Our entire nation with one heavy heart is praying for the victims and their families. To every parent, teacher, and child who is hurting so badly, we are here for you. Whatever you need, whatever we can do to ease your pain,” Trump said. “We are all joined together as one American family, and your suffering is our burden also. No child, no teacher should ever be in danger in an American school. No parent should ever have to fear for their sons and daughters when they kiss them goodbye in the morning. Each person stolen from us yesterday had a full life ahead of them, filled with wondrous beauty and unlimited promise. Each had dreams to pursue.”
On Wednesday, 19-year-old Nikolas Cruz allegedly opened fire on Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. Cruz has been arrested and charged with 17 counts of premeditated murder.
During his statement, Trump took a moment to address children directly. “I want to speak now directly to America’s children, especially those who feel lost, alone, confused, or even scared," he said. "I want you to know that you are never alone and you never will be. You have people who are about you who love you and who will do anything at all to protect you.”
Trump said that his administration is working to “tackle the difficult issue of mental health,” though authorities have not confirmed whether the attack is linked with mental illness. Trump also addressed mental health in a tweet he sent out this morning. There was, however, no mention of gun policies, gun control, or even the word "gun."
People online have been criticizing the President for his tweets and comments, and for avoiding the topic of gun control.
