Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement today in the wake of a tragic shooting at Umpqua Community College:

“As we continue to learn more about the horrific tragedy at Umpqua Community College, and as the victims’ family, friends, and community begin the difficult process of grieving, I join President Obama in calling for a renewed focus on sensible, common sense gun control laws.

“Our schools and colleges should be safe places for our young people and educators. Our shopping malls and movie theaters should be safe places for families and customers to enjoy an outing. Our places of worship should be safe places for people of all faiths.

“This is a national epidemic that deserves a national response from the United States Congress. Our efforts have been stymied before, but we shouldn't ever accept that the status quo is acceptable or that we are powerless. In fact, the Constitution confers great power upon us to do good on behalf of our constituents and protect their safety and wellness. We cannot prevent every tragedy, but surely we can protect more of our citizens than this. 

“I ask my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to jettison the political talking points and to find the courage of their convictions to help prevent more Columbines, Virginia Techs, Charlestons, Tucsons, Sandy Hooks, and Roseburgs.”

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Contact:

Sean Bartlett, Sean.Bartlett@mail.house.gov, 202.225.7931

Geoff Burgan, Geoff.Burgan@mail.house.gov, 202.225.7931