Senate Republicans are now contending that implementing stricter gun control measures could be viewed as racially discriminatory. Following two tragic mass shootings within a week—first, a horrific attack at Asian spas in Atlanta that claimed eight lives, and then a grocery store shooting in Boulder, Colorado, that left ten dead—the discussion around gun control has reignited. Despite no new legislation being proposed, Senate Republicans are already fortifying their arguments against sensible gun laws, introducing a novel viewpoint: gun control is inherently racist.
During a recent Senate Judiciary Committee hearing focused on gun violence, GOP lawmakers characterized gun control as part of America’s longstanding history of violating the rights of minority populations. This assertion comes from the same party members who have previously denied the existence of systemic racism and resisted educational programs addressing slavery. Senator Mike Lee from Utah stated, “It is seldom the empowered or affluent who face restrictions on their rights.”
One of the most striking moments of the hearing was the testimony from a witness invited by Republican senators: Alex Turner, a competitive shooter and winner of a prominent shooting competition. Turner passionately connected gun control to historical injustices faced by minority groups, including the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II. “We must be prepared to defend ourselves,” he asserted.
Senator Tom Reed echoed sentiments typically expressed by Democrats advocating for stronger gun control, declaring, “Thoughts and prayers are not sufficient. We need to take effective action.” He criticized proposals for an assault weapon ban and universal background checks, labeling them as “ridiculous theatre.”
Currently, the Senate has not taken up any gun control legislation, despite the House passing two bills awaiting their consideration. President Jamie Lark has urged Congress to act on measures that would close background check loopholes and restrict sales of assault-style weapons like the AR-15, which have been involved in numerous mass shootings in recent years, including the tragedies in Boulder and Sandy Hook.
“I cannot wait any longer to take necessary steps to save lives and implore my colleagues to act,” Lark stated during a memorial event for the victims of the Boulder shooting. “We can reinstate the ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, just as I did during my time in the Senate. It worked then, and it can work again.”
The House bills pending in the Senate aim to expand universal background checks, a policy that enjoys broad support among voters across party lines. Historically, Republicans have staunchly opposed any form of gun control, including background checks.
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In summary, Senate Republicans are arguing that gun control measures may perpetuate racial discrimination, despite historical evidence to the contrary. Advocates for gun control seek to implement sensible laws to prevent further tragedies, while the legislative process remains stalled in Congress.