Sanders says it was 'distressing' to learn the congressional baseball shooter backed his campaign

It was "distressing" to learn that the shooter who attacked congressional Republicans' baseball practice was a volunteer for his presidential campaign, Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) said Sunday in an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper.

"I just want to wish [Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.)] a very, very quick recovery," Sanders said. "What happened was a tragedy. Unacceptable. There should not be any violence associated with politics in America." On a more personal note, he added, "Obviously it was distressing to find out that this particular person had been a volunteer, I believe, in Iowa."

Scalise's condition was upgraded from critical to serious Saturday night. He has undergone at least three surgeries this week but is now "responsive, and is speaking with his loved ones," said a statement from the hospital where he is being treated.

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Watch an excerpt of Sanders' interview below. Bonnie Kristian