In the hours after the mass shooting in Las Vegas that killed at least 58, politicians responded on conference calls, in press releases and on social media.
Here's a round-up from New Englanders.
Congressional Democrats Call For Stricter Gun Laws
To my colleagues: your cowardice to act cannot be whitewashed by thoughts and prayers.
— Chris Murphy (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 2, 2017
None of this ends unless we do something to stop it.
It is difficult or impossible to say whether any single shooting is preventable, but we also know that we can take commonsense steps to address our problem with gun violence in this country. We must do more to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and the mentally ill, like by instituting stronger background checks and strong steps to prevent gun trafficking and straw purchases. — Vermont U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy
While we have much to learn about this terrible incident, we know mass shootings are all too familiar in America. And we know we can protect our communities better. How many lives must be lost before we act? — Rhode Island U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse
Other Democrats issued more general statements that avoided direct mention of gun control laws.
Heartbroken by news of #LasVegas shooting. My thoughts and prayers are with victims of this tragic attack & the many brave first responders. https://t.co/G3CpzXjLof
— Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) October 2, 2017
Waking up to news of tragedy in #LasVegas leaves me heartbroken for the victims, families & friends. Thankful for brave 1st responders.
— Rep. Richard Neal (@RepRichardNeal) October 2, 2017
Heartbroken to learn of shooting in Las Vegas. Thankful for our first responders and praying for all the victims of this horrific violence.
— Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (@SenatorShaheen) October 2, 2017
No Mention Of Gun Control From Region's Two Republicans In Congress
Shaheen's comments were similar to those issued by the only Senate Republican from New England, Maine's Susan Collins.
Horrific act of violence in Las Vegas. Worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history. First responders showed extraordinary bravery.
— Sen. Susan Collins (@SenatorCollins) October 2, 2017
And the only New England Republican in the U.S. House, Bruce Poliquin of Maine, likewise did not address gun control in his reaction on Twitter.
My thoughts are with all those effected in the horrifying attacks in Las Vegas. The nation is with you.
— Rep. Bruce Poliquin (@RepPoliquin) October 2, 2017
Poliquin has received strong ratings from the National Rifle Association in the past, while Collins has a relatively mixed record on the issue.
