President Barack Obama addressed the nation following the shooting of police officers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“As of right now, we don’t know the motive of the killer…Regardless…Nothing justifies violence against law enforcement. Attacks on police are an attack on all of us and the Rule of Law that makes society possible.”
Obama noted that the FBI has already been “on the scene,” adding that, through all levels of government, “justice will be done.”
Obama saved his most heartfelt words for officers and their families. “This has happened far too often,” Obama said. “I know whenever this happens, wherever this happens, you feel it. Your families know it. But what I want you to know today is the respect and gratitude of the American people for everything you do for us.”
He concluded with a call to all Americans. “Everyone right now focus on words and actions that can unite this country rather than divide it further. We don’t need inflammatory rhetoric…We need to temper our words and open our hearts. All of us.”
“Only we can prove,” he said, “that we can be united. And we are going to have to keep doing it. Again and again.”
Watch the full speech below.
