Law enforcement ‘not in touch’ with Sanders on Scalise shooter’s work for campaign

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Sunday said law enforcement has not been in contact with him about the shooter who he said once volunteered for his presidential campaign.

“Not in touch with me. I am not aware that they have been in touch with my staff,” Sanders told CNN’s “State of the Union” when asked by host Jake Tapper. 

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Sanders said in a speech on the Senate floor last week that the gunman in last week’s baseball shooting had “apparently volunteered” for his presidential campaign in Iowa.

A Facebook profile of 66-year-old James Hodgkinson emerged last week following the shooting in Alexandria, Va. that left Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) and four others injured. Hodgkinson on social media appeared to be a critic of Trump and Republican lawmakers. 

Sanders during the television appearance wished Scalise well and condemned violence in politics.

“And I just want to wish Rep. Scalise a very, very quick recovery.  What happened was a tragedy, unacceptable,” said Sanders.  “There should not be any violence associated with politics in America.”

Scalise is in the hospital following multiple surgeries and was reported in “serious” condition on Sunday.