Dear Mr. Crump:

Thank you for contacting me. I appreciate hearing from you.

I condemn all violence at any political demonstration, including any violent activities by members of Antifa. The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects our freedom of speech, press, assembly, petition, and religion, but it does not protect violence or intimidating others into forfeiting their rights.

I have spent my whole life fighting for people and causes I care about, but always peacefully. Whether in the form of civil discourse or peaceful protest, Americans should continue to have frank discussions with each other and with their leaders about which policy decisions promote our nation’s vitality and which threaten our reputation, civility, and values. I firmly believe that Americans must find common ground with people from all parts of the political spectrum.

I will continue to safeguard our First Amendment rights. Everyone has a unique set of experiences, ideas, and priorities that inform his or her view of the world. When we value those differences, we are better able to solve problems and to push our country forward.

Thank you again for contacting me.

Sincerely,

Tim Kaine