Republican Congressman Tweets About Capitol Shooting, Then Tells Obama To Stop 'Violent Rhetoric'

Rep. Tim Griffin (R-Ark.) fired off a string of tweets about the possible shooting at the U.S. Capitol building earlier Thursday afternoon, with one tweet appearing to blame the incident on President Barack Obama's and other Democrats' "violent rhetoric."

Here are the tweets (screenshot via Buzzfeed):

While many assumed the tweet had been scheduled in advance, Griffin has since issued a statement saying he "tweeted out of emotion." He also called the incident "an act of terrorism."

Here's the full statement:

The shooting today is a terrible and inexcusable tragedy and an act of terrorism. No one but the shooter is to blame. I tweeted out of emotion but agree that the timing was not helpful.

Police believe Thursday's incident was isolated and say they have no information that it's related to terrorism.