Local Politicians Call For More Gun Control In Wake Of Connecticut Shooting
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As you might expect, local elected officials in New York responded with horror and sadness to a shooting in a Connecticut elementary but a surprising number of them also responded with immediate calls for more gun control. NY1's Bobby Cuza filed the following report.It’s certainly no surprise in liberal-leaning New York to hear politicians calling for stricter gun controls. But on Friday, many even challenged President Barack Obama.
In a speech Friday, the president said, "We’re gonna have to come together and take meaningful action." It was a line referenced in Mayor Michael Bloomberg's response to the tragedy.
"Calling for 'meaningful action' is not enough," Mayor Bloomberg said in a statement. "We need immediate action. We have heard all the rhetoric before. What we have not seen is leadership - not from the White House and not from Congress."
Rep. Jerrold Nadler issued a similar challenge to the president. Governor Andrew Cuomo, too, pressed the issue.
"We as a society must unify and once and for all crack down on the guns that have cost the lives of far too many innocent Americans," the governor said in a statement. "Let this terrible tragedy finally be the wake-up call for aggressive action and I pledge my full support in that effort."
Local federal elected officials pledged action.
"We will look at military-style weapons, military-style ammunition, and to see, is this something gun enthusiasts really need? Is it worth the risk we take when some deranged shooter kills so many innocent lives?" said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand.
Gillibrand also pointed out she supports the Second Amendment and hunters' rights. Many, however, see guns-rights groups like the National Rifle Association as part of the problem, and doubt even this latest massacre will prompt reforms.
"We have tragedy after tragedy, and we don’t see the changes in policy we need," said Public Advocate Bill de Blasio.
"What is enough? Is it this? We have kids in cities dying every night. That’s not enough?" said City Councilman Jumaane Williams. "At some point, elected officials have to get the cojones, I guess is the best word, to do what needs to be done."
Of course, there is little agreement in Washington on just what that is.