Obama, GOP put politics aside in wake of Boston bombing
The venue is typically used to trash political opponents, but there was scant evidence of politicking in Saturday's weekly addresses from the president and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., who both lauded the courage of first responders and vowed justice on behalf of a shaken nation.
In the days since the Boston attack, President Obama said, "the world has witnessed one sure and steadfast truth: Americans refuse to be terrorized."
"Ultimately, that's what we'll remember from this week," he said. "Stories of heroism and kindness, resolve and resilience, generosity and love."
Commending the "brave first responders" who rushed to the scene and the "determined doctors and nurses" whose lifesaving work prevented further casualties, the president said, "If anyone want to know who we are, what America is, how we respond to evil and terror - that's it. Selflessly. Compassionately. And unafraid."
The president also paid tribute to the "heroic federal agents and police officers who worked together throughout the week" to identify and apprehend those suspected of involvement in the bombings.
Investigators identified brothers Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19 - of Chechen heritage and legal permanent residents of the U.S. - as suspects in the bombings after piecing together evidence compiled after the attack. Tamerlan was killed by police early Friday morning; Dzhokhar was captured Friday night after a massive manhunt.
Scott, in the GOP address, directed a message to the perpetrators: "To those who would attack America or our citizens, let me say this - there is no corner on Earth, no hiding place in America that will keep us from finding you. The leaders of this country will do everything in our power to bring justice for the families and the communities impacted."
While the bombings "left us all with a heavy heart," Scott said, "We will stand strong, we will stand united, and we will stand together for Boston."
"Boston's spirit remains undaunted," President Obama said, and "America's spirit remains undimmed." The president expressed "no doubt" that Bostonians and those affected by the tragedy will continue responding "in the same proud and heroic way they have thus far - and their fellow Americans will be right there with them every step of the way."