In the wake of the tragic Lewiston mass shootings, Democratic U.S. Rep. Jared Golden of Maine’s 2nd District has issued a public apology for his past opposition to banning certain assault weapons. He now joins the call for congressional action on gun control measures.
Golden conveyed his change of heart during a press conference in Lewiston, standing alongside Republican U.S. Sen. Susan Collins. While Collins maintained her stance on assault weapons, she emphasized the need for other restrictions. Golden, on the other hand, expressed contrition and a renewed commitment to gun control measures.
In his address, Golden acknowledged that his prior opposition to the ban on certain assault weapons was a result of “false confidence” that his community was immune to deadly shootings. He urged Congress to take action to prohibit assault rifles, particularly the type used in the recent mass shooting in his hometown.
Last year, Golden was one of the few House Democrats to oppose gun control measures, including a ban on certain semi-automatic weapons and restrictions on high-capacity magazines. He now intends to collaborate with his colleagues to advocate for a ban on assault rifles.
In his plea, Golden sought forgiveness and support from his constituents, especially those affected by the tragic incident in Lewiston. He pledged to dedicate all his efforts to aid in the community’s recovery and prevent such dreadful shootings in the future.
When asked about her stance, Senator Susan Collins advocated for a ban on high-capacity magazines as a priority. She pointed out her past support for a ban on some assault weapons in the 1990s but expressed reservations about expanding the ban based on cosmetic features. Collins highlighted the importance of the 2nd Amendment and Maine’s strong tradition of responsible gun ownership.
Collins also presented other measures she favors, including banning “bump stocks” and raising the minimum age for purchasing high-capacity rifles. She mentioned her co-authorship of last year’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which increased funding for states with “red flag” and “yellow flag” laws. The “yellow flag” law in Maine, allowing temporary restrictions on gun access, has come under scrutiny due to its perceived onerous requirements. Collins indicated that it should have been applied in the recent case based on reported mental health concerns regarding the suspect.
The tragic events in Lewiston have prompted bipartisan calls for stronger gun control measures, with political leaders taking a closer look at existing laws and advocating for changes to enhance public safety.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
