Senate Democratic Leader Greg Taylor (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement on behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus in response to the closing of the statehouse next week:

“We appreciate the hard work of Indiana State Police and other police departments around the state for working together to keep everybody safe during this tense time.

“I support this decision to close the statehouse next week. We must remember that our primary concern is providing a safe environment for the dedicated staff who work in that building, the public who uses the statehouse to make their voices heard and the reporters who keep us all informed.

“However, I would be remiss to not acknowledge that this is a sad day for Indiana and America as elected officials cannot complete the work those who elected us sent us here to do. This nation needs to heal, and we must quickly get back to working on behalf of Hoosiers across the state.

“Despite the partisanship and deadlock in our nation’s capital, here in Indiana, the Senate Democrats will continue to work with our colleagues across the aisle to stand for every Hoosier. It’s imperative that both parties put aside partisanship to make sure those who are struggling right now get the help they deserve.

“We hope every Hoosier can come together in the name of progress and equal rights for all.”