Sens. Johnson and Baldwin issue joint statement condemning outside groups aiming to exploit Waukesha parade attack tragedy

OSHKOSH, Wis. (CBS 58) -- United States Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) issued a joint statement Saturday, Nov. 27, condemning outside groups attempting to exploit the Christmas parade tragedy in Waukesha.

In a statement released Saturday, the two Wisconsin Senators expressed their trust in local law enforcement and are asking the public to help begin the healing process in Waukesha.

"It has come to our attention that outside individuals or groups may attempt to exploit the tragedy that occurred last Sunday in Waukesha for their own political purposes." Johnson and Baldwin said in the statement. "As the U.S. Senators representing Wisconsin, one from each political party, we are asking anyone considering such action to cease and desist."

Both Senators re-emphasized their trust in local leaders who responded to the parade attack and who are now dealing in the aftermath of a mass tragedy.

"We have full confidence in the local officials who responded with extraordinary professionalism, competence, integrity, and compassion. They have many difficult duties to perform in the coming days, weeks, and months, and they should be afforded the respect and support they deserve to undertake their responsibilities without outside interference" said Johnson and Baldwin.

Both Wisconsin Senators expressed a desire to start the healing process within Waukesha by "providing comfort and support to surviving family members of the deceased, and those injured both in body and spirit."

Johnson and Baldwin also said that local officials must be allowed the chance to conduct a thorough investigation into the Waukesha parade attack, without outside interference.

"These will not be easy tasks, and will be made even more difficult if conducted within a politically charged atmosphere," said Johnson and Baldwin.

"We ask everyone to demonstrate their interest and concern by praying for the victims, their families, and the entire community of Waukesha," Johnson and Baldwin said. "The Waukesha Community Foundation and United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County have also established the “United for Waukesha Community Fund” for those who wish to provide financial support for the victims."