From the Rogero campaign:

"In response to numerous requests for comment regarding the hateful anonymous mailer that arrived at the homes of many Knoxville residents this weekend, I want to say how deeply I feel for the people who were attacked, and their families and friends.

My campaign has been fueled by support from all corners of Knoxville and it saddens me that those who would stand beside me for a better Knoxville would be met with such an assault.

I appreciate Mark’s quick denunciation of the letter, and know that he would not want the vote of anyone holding such views.

The only way to snuff the flame of this type of hate and ignorance is to cut off the oxygen. We have two weeks until Election Day and there is no reason to pause over this filth a moment more."

PREVIOUSLY:

• Padgett: anonymous mailing is "disgusting" and a "potential hate crime"

• Hateful mailing from Padgett "supporter"