James S. Brady Press Briefing Room
1:33 P.M. EDT
MS. JEAN-PIERRE: Good afternoon, everyone.
Q Good afternoon.
MS. JEAN-PIERRE: I wanted to start with a word about the horrific news out of Lewiston, Maine, last night, where we saw another tragic shooting that has taken at least 18 lives, injured many others, and left countless people in grief, shock, and trauma.
As the President said in a statement earlier today, he and the First Lady are praying for the victims and their families; for those still fighting for their lives; and for the families, survivors, and community members reeling from this latest act of gun violence.
And, importantly, we continue to urge all residents to heed the warnings and guidance of the local officials and federal law enforcement who are on the ground to assist with the response.
During the state dinner last night, the President was informed and stepped out to receive an initial briefing of the shooting. Later, he stepped out to speak with Maine Governor Janet Mills, as well as Senators Collins and King, and Congressman Jared Golden. He pledged full federal support in the wake of this horrific tragedy.
This morning, the President received another briefing on the shooting from senior advisors, and he ordered that the U.S. flag be flown half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds out of respect for all the victims as well.
So, I want to echo the President’s sentiments on this…
