On the recordFebruary 13, 2019
We have spent a very long day in the Judiciary Committee working on legislation to respond to the American people's cry for universal background checks, but I rise as well, in the backdrop of that legislation, to stand for the victims of gun violence. I think it is important to note that America has 329 million people- plus here in the United States, and it is growing every day. But we have 393 million guns here in this country. We have lost, in this past year, almost 40,000 people to gun violence. I believe it is important, in a bipartisan way, that, when we are here in the people's House, we act on behalf of the American people. They want fair, simple universal background checks, which I hope will be on this floor very soon. Let me close by giving my deepest sympathy to the family, friends, and staff of Walter Jones. I viewed him as a great American, a great public servant, and one of great principle. I know that Walter, in his life and now in his passing, will wish for this Nation peace and dignity for all of those men and women who serve in the United States military. May he rest in peace. ____________________
