The spate of deadly domestic extremist violence against houses of worship and nonprofit institutions is a growing threat to virtually every corner of the United States. It is imperative that elected officials like myself do everything in our power to combat this weaponized hatred whenever is rears its hideous head.

To that end, I recently helped lead bipartisan legislation that would authorize a security grant program for religious institutions and non-profits. I’ve also worked to increase federal funding for the Federal Non-Profit Security Grant Program from $13 million to $60 million, and we are requesting $75 million in the next budget. Through letters and conversations, I am working closely with my colleagues to fully fund these critical programs so that religious communities can have the security they deserve. As the Old Testament tells us, silence is consent. In the face of this new wave of radicalized hate, I promise that I will never be silent.