“We’re all outraged at what happened to George Floyd. As a state and a nation, we need to do better. I commend everyone who has peacefully protested and spoken out against racism and violence. However, we cannot let the memory of Floyd be tarnished by acts of looting and rioting. We need to allow the justice system to take its course.

“It’s important we bring public attention to the issues of injustice occurring in our nation. I encourage those who are outraged to protest — in a peaceful way. Thank you to all of our law enforcement officials and New York state troopers who have answered calls for help from communities across our state and nation.”