“Few times in our nation’s history have our people been so divided. Since the beginning, even our Founding Fathers viewed political parties as a necessary system that pitted two sides against one another to compete for the best ideas. But sadly, over the last four years our parties have developed disdain for each other that has only resulted in partisan gridlock.

“At the end of the day, we are so much more than our political identities. First and foremost, we are Americans, and deep down, each of us want what is best for our country and its people. And while Democrats and Republicans often have opposing views on how to move our country forward, we must always work to find compromise and peacefully agree to disagree when we can’t. As President John F. Kennedy said, ‘It's only when they join together in a forward movement that this country moves ahead.’

“The political divisions, hyper-partisanship and contempt towards members of the opposing party weren’t created by President Trump, but were exploited and intensified by him. Today as we celebrate the inauguration of a new president, let us pause, take a breath and begin anew. President Joe Biden has said that he wants to be a president for all Americans, and I am confident that he will be. I’m asking every American to give him the chance to move forward, and help us heal the divisions that have plagued our society and our discourse.”