Republicans declare support for Khans in spat with Trump

WASHINGTON (AP) — Prominent Republicans are speaking out Monday against their own presidential candidate after he chose to scuffle with the grieving parents of a decorated Army veteran killed in Iraq.

Khizr and Ghazala Khan, the bereaved parents of Capt. Humayun Khan, a Muslim who was awarded a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart after he was killed in 2004, have refused to back down from their criticism of Trump even as he has complained of being "viciously attacked."

Republicans, from Trump's staunch supporters to those who have previously been reluctant to engage with Trump, have spoken out overwhelmingly in support of the Khans.

While our party has bestowed upon him the nomination, it is not accompanied by unfettered license to defame those who are the best among us.

Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John McCain, R-Ariz., a prisoner of war in Vietnam who Trump has derided for being captured.

There is never enough honor we can show to the families of those whose loved ones have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mac Thornberry of Texas.

There used to be some things that were sacred in American politics - that you don't do - like criticizing the parents of a fallen soldier even if they criticize you.

First of all, I just think that anyone that has died in the service of our country is a hero.

Capt. Humayun Khan, and all the Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, deserve our deepest respect and gratitude.

Having served in Iraq, I'm deeply offended when Donald Trump fails to honor the sacrifices of all of our brave soldiers who were lost in that war.