Gun violence is an epidemic that requires every citizen, and certainly every public official, to reflect on our responsibilities to our fellow Americans. I recognize that people have the right to defend themselves and their property. At the same time, I believe even more fiercely that everyone in the United States should be safe from gun violence without carrying a firearm. The elected officials who refuse to accept common sense, and broadly supported, gun safety reform must be held accountable, and I am wholly committed to ensuring the United States Congress advances legislation that prioritizes public safety over political expediency.

I strongly believe the only way to end this epidemic once and for all is by equipping our communities with the tools they need to prevent violence. This includes keeping weapons out of the hands of those who pose a risk to themselves and others, improving access to local resources for survivors of gun violence, and investing in economic development programs proven to reduce crime.

As a longtime supporter of the Assault Weapons Ban, I am proud to cosponsor critical legislation like the Keep Americans Safe Act, which limits access to large-capacity magazines; the Bipartisan Background Checks Act, which expands safety screening requirements in private gun sales; and the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act, which expands “red flag laws” meant to limit access to firearms for individuals believed to be a danger to themselves and those around them.