Madison, WI — Senator Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield) released the following statement in response to the recent rash of violent riots:
“I haven’t been this frustrated in my nearly 50 years. In the middle of a virus that has become a political football at the expense of the governed, we are being forced to stand by and watch our cities fall into chaos. For the second time this summer, my Capitol office was vandalized by a violent mob of rioters. While the damage to my office pales in comparison to the destruction of property and livelihoods happening in both Madison and Kenosha, it is emblematic of the growing disregard for the rule of law by some elected officials.
Following the shooting of Jacob Blake, Governor Evers issued a statement designed to fan the flames of outrage without having any of the details necessary to make such a judgement. In these situations, we should be getting facts through the investigatory process before rushing to judgement for political gain. If police officers break the law, then they should be held accountable to the full extent of the law, and vice versa.
Everyone has the right to peacefully protest. However, we place ourselves in a dangerous position if some in society are allowed to break the law in the name of justice. As our cities continue to be looted, burned, and destroyed, law abiding citizens are growing more and more frustrated as they helplessly watch this destruction take place. Governor Evers once again has shown very little interest in upholding the rule of law, a key function of his position.
Governor Evers has the resources and the responsibility to put a stop to this violence and destruction, yet he foments division and destruction while hiding in the Governor’s Mansion with police protection. We should not allow him to continue to betray his oath of office. Wisconsinites deserve better.”
