In a recent interview with NBC News' "Meet the Press," Arizona Senator Mark Kelly spoke out against Arizona GOP Senate candidate Kari Lake's recent use of violent rhetoric, expressing concern that her comments could potentially lead to harm or even loss of life.

The controversy stemmed from remarks made by Lake at a campaign event last month. She stated, "They're coming after us with lawfare, they're going to come after us with everything. That's why the next six months are going to be intense. And we need to strap on our... What do we want to strap on? We're going to strap on our, our seat belt. We're going to put on our helmet or your Kari Lake ball cap. We are going to put on the armor of God. And maybe strap on a Glock on the side of us just in case."

Senator Kelly, a Democrat, admonished Lake for her rhetoric, emphasizing the need for political candidates to choose their words carefully. He cautioned against the historical precedent of incendiary language and called on people to reject such rhetoric. Kelly emphasized the importance of considering the consequences and striving for better discourse in political campaigns.

Drawing from his own personal experience with political violence, Kelly reflected on the tragic shooting in 2011 that severely injured his wife, former Representative Gabby Giffords. He described the event as a horrifying act of political violence, where six individuals lost their lives and 18 others, including Giffords, were injured. Kelly underscored the necessity of having elected officials who are committed to leading the country in a direction where election outcomes are respected and language does not incite supporters.

Kari Lake, a former TV news anchor, is currently running for the open Senate seat in Arizona, having narrowly lost a bid for governor in 2022. She is now challenging Democratic Representative Ruben Gallego, who has received Senator Kelly's endorsement.

As the election cycle progresses, Lake's recent use of violent rhetoric has become a topic of concern. Senator Kelly's rebuke serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with seeking public office and the need to promote civil and respectful political discourse for the betterment of the nation.