Hirono: Victims Of Gun Violence Deserve More Than Empty Promises

Senator Mazie K. Hirono today voted to support two commonsense measures to curb gun violence. The first, authored by Senator Christopher Murphy (D-CT) would strengthen background checks for gun buyers. The second, authored by Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and cosponsored by Senator Hirono, would close the “terror gap” by giving the Attorney General the discretion to keep suspected terrorists from buying a gun.

“Last week on the Senate floor, I joined Senator Murphy in calling for action on commonsense measures to curb gun violence in honor of the more than 6,000 people killed by guns so far in 2016. Since that speech last Wednesday, nearly 200 more Americans have been killed by guns,” said Senator Hirono. “Enough is enough. These victims and their loved ones deserve more than empty promises, thoughts, and prayers. Today, Senate Republicans sent a clear message that they are more interested in pandering to special interests such as the National Rifle Association than taking steps to prevent tragedies like Orlando, like Newtown, like Charleston, from happening again. I will continue to fight alongside the millions of Americans demanding action.”

Last week, Senator Hirono joined Senator Murphy’s 15-hour filibuster to demand votes on his and Senator Feinstein’s amendments. Click here to watch Senator Hirono’s remarks.