The House Democrats’ sit-in is over. The group was protesting a lack of votes on gun control bills in Congress. The sit-in—which lasted more than a day—included North Florida Congresswoman Gwen Graham.
While Republicans called the sit-in on the House floor “a publicity stunt,” House Democrats says it’s important for Congress to act on bills to curb gun violence on behalf of all victims—including those of Orlando’s mass shooting. And, Graham (D-FL) says she feels the same way.
“My heart breaks for all parents, all across Orlando, Florida, our country,” she said, during the sit-in. “My heart breaks for all of those who lost their lives at Pulse. We need smarter laws to make our communities safer.”
In response to the sit-in, Speaker Paul Ryan adjourned the House early until July 5th. Some House Democrats had said the sit-in could last for days, but it ended after 25 and a half hours. Still, they say the fight is not over.
Meanwhile, a bipartisan Senate compromise on gun control led by Sen. Susan Collins (R-ME) survived a procedural move that could have killed the bill on a 46-52 vote. Still, had it been an actual vote, it would have needed 60 to pass the U.S. Senate.
Among its provisions, it would prevent those on the no Fly List from buying guns. It would also alert the FBI if someone taken off the terrorist watch list within the last five years tries to purchase a gun.
For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.
