First Lady ‘Disappointed’ With Violence in Washington, Calls for America to ‘Heal’

First Lady Melania Trump addresses the Marines Toys for Tots drive at Joint Base Base Anacostia Bolling in Washington on Dec. 8, 2020. Nicholas Kamm/AFP via Getty Images

First Lady Melania Trump on Monday said she was “disappointed and disheartened” with the violence that erupted in Washington on Jan. 6 and called on Americans to “heal in a civil manner.”

In her first statement since the storming of the U.S. Capitol, Trump said her heart goes out to those who lost their lives that day, including Capitol Police officer Brian Sicknick and President Donald Trump supporter Ashli Babbitt.

“I am disappointed and disheartened with what happened last week. I find it shameful that surrounding these tragic events there has been salacious gossip, unwarranted personal attacks, and false misleading accusations on me—from people who are looking to be relevant and have an agenda. This time is solely about healing our country and its citizens. It should not be used for personal gain,” Melania Trump wrote.

“Our nation must heal in a civil manner. Make no mistake about it, I absolutely condemn the violence that has occurred on our nation’s Capitol. Violence is never acceptable,” she added.

The first lady noted that Americans are free to express viewpoints without prosecution and called on people to “take a moment, pause, and look at things from all perspectives.”

Protesters storm the Capitol building in Washington on Jan. 6, 2020. Ahmed Gaber/Reuters

“I implore people to stop the violence, never make assumptions based on the color of a person’s skin, or use differing political ideologies as a basis for aggression and viciousness. We must listen to one another, focus on what unites us, and rise above what divides us,” she said.

“It is inspiring to see that so many have found a passion and enthusiasm in participating in an election, but we must not allow that passion to turn to violence. Our path forward is to come together, find our commonalities, and be the kind and strong people that I know we are.

“Our country’s strength and character have revealed themselves in the communities that have been impacted by natural disasters and throughout this terrible pandemic that has affected all of us. The common thread in all of these challenging situations is Americans’ unwavering resolve to help one another. Your compassion has shown the true spirit of our country.”

Trump said she was honored to serve as the first lady and thanked people who supported her and her husband during the president’s term.

“Most importantly, I ask for healing, grace, understanding, and peace for our great nation. Every day let us remember that we are one nation under God. God bless you all and God bless the United States of America,” she concluded.

The first lady’s remarks came as House Democrats prepare to try to impeach President Trump for the second time, despite only nine days remaining before President-elect Joe Biden is sworn into office. They also came after some administration officials, including the first lady’s aide Stephanie Grisham, resigned after the Capitol breach.