On the recordOctober 2, 2017
I wish to start my remarks with my deepest condolences and prayers for the people of Las Vegas and for the families and loved ones of the victims of the worst mass shooting in our Nation's history. The Nation's heart breaks that innocent concertgoers had to suffer such senseless violence. May you find the strength and love to overcome your grief, to heal, and to move forward. We owe our gratitude to the brave first responders for their efforts last night and to the medical professionals who are working tirelessly to heal wounds and save lives right now. But enough is enough. Americans are tired of living in fear that their community will be the next Newtown, Aurora, Orlando, or Las Vegas. We must act so that we do not become numb to this preventable carnage. This epidemic of gun violence in our country is not preordained. It is preventable. We can begin by banning these military-style assault weapons, like the AR-51, which are the guns of choice for those who seek to inflict mass casualties on civilians. These are weapons that belong in combat, not in our communities. Unfortunately, the gun lobby prevailed on Congress to let the assault weapons ban expire in 2004, but we need it now more than ever. We must also pass legislation to ensure that all gun purchases include a background check. Ninety-two percent of Americans support expanded background checks. No one should be able to purchase a gun through Facebook or Instagram without a background check.…
