Gun Control-Their Actions Speak Louder Than Their Words
Gun control has been a pressing issue in the United States for over a decade due to the threat of mass shootings throughout the country. However, despite the near-constant threat of mass shootings, including school shootings such as what we saw in Uvalde, Texas, recently, we have not seen legislation enacted to dissipate this issue.
@mid18thcenturymodern Events this week made me remember this #thedailyshow segment with #johnoliver ♬ original sound – Kate
As seen in the TikTok above, despite political rhetoric dispensed by Republican politicians, such as Lauren Boebert’s post on Twitter saying, “You cannot legislate evil away,” It has been proven by other countries that that statement is a straw man argument. People aren’t perfect, and there will always be violence in the world, but we can pass legislation to decrease deadly weapons that were made to be used in a military setting. As demonstrated by John Oliver nine years ago, it is clear that Republicans prioritize the support they receive from the NRA over the well-being of citizens.
We even saw this from Senator Ted Cruz when speaking to a reporter in Uvalde, Texas. As seen in the video below, when asked about the shooting, he tried to evade the issue of gun control by saying, “It’s easy to go to politics” and “If you want to stop violent crime, the proposals that the Democrats have would have stopped this.” However, that simply isn’t true. As seen in Australia, Britain, and Canada, when gun control is implemented, the threat of mass shootings is significantly lessened if not eliminated. Republicans continue to argue that gun control solutions that are proven to work don’t in order to further their political agendas while they put the lives of everyday citizens in danger. We can no longer go to the grocery store, school, or even church without there being a possible threat of violence, and Republican politicians are not providing tangible solutions to protect the lives of their constituents.
@skynews “Why only in America?” US Senator Ted Cruz walks away from Sky’s Mark Stone after being asked if “this is the moment to reform gun laws” #TedCruz #Texasshooting #gunlaws #America ♬ original sound – Sky News
Although the lack of a call to action by Republican politicians isn’t surprising, it was reaffirming to see the passion and solutions provided by Beto O’Rourke, who is a gubernatorial candidate in Texas. When asked about solutions, Beto O’Rourke provided four common-sense gun solutions that would mitigate, if not prevent, more mass shootings in the future. He even called out Republican politicians for going to Texas’ NRA convention to congratulate themselves for making it easier for people to purchase and carry weapons without background checks.
Fundamental change in the form of Gun Control legislation is only possible when we consistently elect representatives with our best interests In mind. Unfortunately, the actions of Republican politicians in the past decade have demonstrated that they are more interested in their loyalty to the NRA than enacting gun control legislation that has bipartisan support.
Without action, we will continue to see our children, friends, and parents’ lives at risk whenever they leave the house. The midterm elections, including representatives both in the house and senate as well as the gubernatorial that are occurring, this is our chance to vote blue to see the passage of gun violence protection. Rideshare2Vote is committed to providing rides to those with transportation insecurity and disabilities to have their voices heard. Join us in voting in the upcoming elections in November and support our mission to allow everyone who wants to vote the ability to access their constitutional right.
by Samantha Gutcho
