WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., today released the following statement after being asked by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to join a group of Senate committee chairmen who will consider bipartisan, bicameral legislation to address gun violence after the recent shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio:

“Gayle and I were horrified to hear of the shootings in El Paso and Dayton, and we grieve for the victims and their families. We unequivocally condemn these acts of violence and the bigotry, hatred, and cowardice that motivated them.

“Were it not for the bravery of the first responders, more innocent lives would have been lost. We thank the heroes in law enforcement and those on the scene who ran into harm’s way, saving lives.

“This morning President Trump called upon Congress to address gun violence, and Senate Republicans are taking action. This afternoon Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell asked Chairman Graham of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Chairman Alexander of the Senate HELP Committee, and me to work within our jurisdictions to help protect communities without infringing on Americans’ constitutional rights.

“It will be important for any solution we consider to be able to pass the Senate and the House and earn the president’s signature.”

To view Leader McConnell’s statement click here.