There is certainly a lot happening in the news today. First let’s start with the gun debate. Former Representative Gabby Giffords giving a brief, yet emotional, opening statement today before the Senate Judiciary Committee where she said, ”violence is a big problem. Too many children are dying. Too many children. We must do something! It will be hard. But the time is now! You must act! Be bold. Be courageous. Americans are counting on you!” Gabby Giffords was perfectly clear with her message, it is time for Congress to act on guns.
In addition to her opening statement, Giffords’ husband, Mark Kelly also testified. In stark contrast to both their testimonies, the National Rifle Association CEO, Wayne LaPierre testified as well before the committee and said, “law abiding gun owners will not accept blame for the acts of violent of deranged criminals. Nor do we believe the government should dictate what we can lawfully own and use to protect our families.” So where does this leave the gun debate? President Obama signed a 23-point gun control order on January 16 and last week Senator Feinstein introduced a new military-style weapons bill but it isn’t clear what direction Congress is going in. Rumor has it there is another bi-partisan plan in the works in the Senate. This one is for a comprehensive background check bill. So where will this end up? It is unclear but it is certainly an issue that is not disappearing.
Abby Borovitz