On the recordJanuary 10, 2017
Last week, we observed a moment of silence to remember the victims 6 years after the Tucson shooting. Just yesterday, another moment of silence to remember the five people killed and six wounded when they were shot while waiting at the Fort Lauderdale Airport baggage claim. In those awful moments after the shooting, the airport was thrown into chaos and confusion. Yet, before we knew anything of the circumstances, every American could tell you what would come next because Congress has developed a well-worn routine in response to gun violence: first, shocking news of a deadly shooting, followed by thoughts and prayers, followed by a moment of silence on this floor, followed by a complete failure to take action. To truly honor the victims, moments of silence must be followed by productive discussions of policy: What will we do to keep our community safer? I ask my Republican colleagues, meet with me. Let's at least start a conversation here on the House floor. We can no longer remain silent during this epidemic of gun violence. Thoughts and prayers are all that we have offered the American people, and that is not enough. ____________________
