"I apologize if in any way we diminished the pain being felt across our state today"

In the Facebook broadcast, the Republican noted that a shooting had taken place and called for prayers for those affected and for parade organizers.

“They’ve done an amazing job,” Bailey said. “There’s a lot of confusion and frustration that the parade’s being cancelled but they did the right thing because people’s safety has got to come first. The shooter is still at large, so let’s pray for justice to prevail.”

He continued: “And then let’s move on and let’s celebrate the independence of this nation. We know the mission. We have got to get corruption and evil out of our government, and we have got to elect men and women of honor and courage to get this country and this state back on track.”…

Bailey’s campaign later issued a clarification to Vice.

“I am heartbroken by today’s tragic events and the pain and loss felt by so many,” it read.

“My intent was to pray for the victims and those affected by today’s tragedy and for the shooter to be caught and prosecuted without further loss

“I apologize if in any way we diminished the pain being felt across our state today. I hope we can all come together in prayer and action to address rampant crime and mental heath issues to make sure these horrific tragedies don’t happen again.”