SPLC President Urges Congress to Not Ignore Terrorism from Radical Right

SPLC President Richard Cohen testified today about the threat of radical-right terrorism before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Oversight, Agency Action, Federal Rights and Federal Courts.

He delivered the following oral remarks to the subcommittee chaired by Sen. Ted Cruz, in addition to written testimony:

Thank you, Senator Cruz, it's good to see you again.

Our country faces threats of violent extremism from many sources.

The horrible massacre at the Orlando gay nightclub earlier this month by a gunmen pledging allegiance to ISIS is but the latest example.

A year ago this month, it was the massacre of black churchgoers at Charleston’s “Mother Emanuel” church by a white supremacist.

Two years ago this month, it was the murder of Las Vegas police officers by antigovernment zealots who had been at Cliven Bundy’s ranch.

I would not take issue with the Obama administration’s assessment that terrorism from those affiliated with or inspired by groups like ISIS “represent[s] the preeminent threat to our country.”

But I would point out that the threat of violent extremism from those blinded by racial hatred and rage at the government are serious ones as well. 

Click here for the full testimony. 

Source: The Southern Poverty Law Center