Connecticut Democratic Senator Chris Murphy gave an impassioned response after another deadly mass shooting took place Sunday. At least 26 parishioners died and 20 more continue to fight to survive injuries sustained when a gunman opened fire during services at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.
The senator, who represents the community where the deadly Sandy Hook school shooting occurred, is a vocal advocate for gun control. Murphy reacted to the feelings of helplessness that Americans experience after news of these mass shootings.
“The paralysis you feel right now ― the impotent helplessness that washes over you as news of another mass slaughter scrolls across the television screen ― isn’t real," Murphy stated. "It’s a fiction created and methodically cultivated by the gun lobby.”
None of this is inevitable ... It is uniquely and tragically American.”
Senator Chris Murphy's response to the Sutherland Springs shooting. It's well worth the read. https://t.co/9CfEB2OM4p— Greg Hogben (@Greg Hogben) 1509920037.0
Murphy called Congress “cowardly” and challenged his colleagues, some of whom receive large donations from the National Rifle Association and other organizations that routinely block efforts to enact gun control legislation.
How can you claim that you respect human life while choosing fealty to weapons-makers over support for measures favored by the vast majority of your constituents.”
Senator Murphy’s words echo those of his colleague Senator Richard Blumenthal.
“Prayers are important but insufficient,” Murphy's fellow Democratic senator wrote on Twitter. “Enough is enough.”
Horror, heartbreak, shame. Prayers are important but insufficient. After another unspeakable tragedy, Congress must act - or be complicit.— Richard Blumenthal (@Richard Blumenthal) 1509916080.0
Enough is enough. Now is the time for commonsense gun violence prevention steps. Congressional complicity must end.— Richard Blumenthal (@Richard Blumenthal) 1509916115.0