Neil Heslin, father of six-year-old Newtown victim Jesse Lewis, said that he’s “ashamed” Congress hasn’t voted yet on new gun control legislation.
“I’m not real proud of what I see in Congress,” Heslin said on Jansing & Co. Tuesday.”It at least deserves a vote. I’m really upset and disturbed it hasn’t gotten that respect from Congress.”
Senators Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and Mike Lee are threatening to filibuster any new gun laws, Politico reported Tuesday.
“To be totally honest with you, I haven’t had anyone come to me to explain why they object to it… all I’ve heard is the Second Amendment, the Second Amendment. And it’s not about the Second Amendment, it’s about saving people’s lives, innocent people’s lives,” Heslin said.
The NRA is also sending out robo-calls to residents in Newtown. A recorded voice says, “This week, despite an outcry of public opposition, anti-gun legislators are aggressively pursuing numerous proposals that are designed to disarm and punish law abiding gun owners and sportsmen. These bills would ban commonly owned firearms, impose a gun rationing scheme and mandate gun registration.”
Off camera, Heslin also told Jansing that he’s disturbed by the robo-calls; however, he has not received one personally and has not heard them. He does not think it’s appropriate for the community of Newtown.
The White House says President Obama will continue to push for a vote on the assault weapons ban, though it would only be as an amendment. Senator Harry Reid will bring up the comprehensive gun package after lawmakers return from break.
“I keep telling folks this is a transformational moment. When Sandy Hook took place, I can’t think of too much that should cause people to say look, we cannot continue to go down this road without making a difference,” Congressman Elijah Cummings said on Morning Joe.
Heslin said he never planned to speak before Congress or on television, but believes his son deserves a vote.
Kristin Donnelly