It’s absolutely horrible. I know, I remember, that words aren’t nearly enough to express the emotion that follows such a senselessly violent act. Nevertheless, my heart goes out to Madrid, to Spain, to all the families, friends, and lovers who have been affected by this savagery.

There is never an excuse for the murder of innocents. Never. Whether Basque separatists, Arab militants, or simply deranged psychotics, there are people in this world who do not value human life. We will never rid ourselves of them, but we can, must, and always will fight them. Those who would achieve their goals through fear and terror should be given no respite, however brief.

To every sympathizer who makes excuses for these criminals, to every pundit who defends such acts of barbarism as a political statement, to every last person who argues that the willful and intentional destruction of innocent lives — regardless of race, nationality, or faith — can be justified, for whatever reason… damn you.

History holds no glory or reverence for terrorists, and the future holds no pardon for those who defend their atrocities. Nor do I.