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Hoyer Statement on the Deaths of Dr. Warren Weinstein and Giovanni Lo Porto

April 23, 2015

WASHINGTON, DC –Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5)released the following statement today on the deaths of Dr. Warren Weinstein and Giovanni Lo Porto, who were being held as hostages by al Qaeda:

"I was saddened to learn of the tragic deaths of Dr. Warren Weinstein and Giovanni Lo Porto while they were being held as hostages by al Qaeda. My thoughts and prayers are with their families during this difficult time. 

"Dr. Weinstein was from Rockville, in my home state of Maryland, and my colleagues and I in the Maryland delegation had been hoping to see him returned safely to his wife Elaine and their two daughters and the community that had rallied together to support them through the ordeal of his captivity. I want to thank Rep. John Delaney and Senators Barbara Mikulski and Ben Cardin for their leadership in efforts to bring him home. 

"This incident reminds us of the extraordinary contributions and sacrifices of diplomats and aid workers from our country and our allies who serve on the front lines every day, often at great personal risk. They continue to deserve our respect and admiration as they carry out their important work."