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US: Republicans block debate in Senate on massive gun attacks

Republicans in the Senate on Thursday blocked a debate on a bill that was Congress’ first attempt to counter mass gun attacks following the killing of ten African-Americans by a white supremacist in New York and New York. the execution of 19 students and two teachers from an armed attack on a school in Texas.

The 47-47 vote, held under party discipline, failed to meet the 60-vote requirement to start a 100-seat debate in the Senate on a bill entitled “Home Prevention Bill.” Terrorism “.

Republicans have argued that legislation is not necessary, as Democratic President Joe Biden already has the power to organize his government’s response to violent extremism.

Democrats have argued that the bill needed to strengthen the federal government’s response to the growing number of violent extremists. They stressed that amendments to any such bill could launch restrictions on gun ownership.

Incidents of mass gun attacks in recent years have sparked discussions in Congress about tackling gun violence, but little has been done, as the two parties remain virtually divided over restrictions on the use of firearms.

Americans have little faith in Congress’ ability to solve the problem, as only 35% of those polled (Reuters / Ipsos) on Tuesday believe lawmakers will take action.

The House of Representatives passed a bill on domestic terrorism with partisan discipline last week, after ten African-Americans were killed by a supporter of white supremacy in a supermarket in Buffalo, New York on May 14. The perpetrator broadcast his attack live, via live streaming.

Senate Democrats and some Republicans have debated the possibility of cross-party legislation to address mass gun attacks, including proposals to extend precautionary controls on gun buyers and to bar mentally ill people from buying weapons.

79% of Americans (including 78% of Republicans) are more likely to vote for a candidate who supports legislation to take precautions against gun use, according to the same poll.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Sumer said at least five members of the Democratic caucus, including Sen. Chris Murphy, had approached Republicans about possible gun-related measures and school safety.

“None of us have any illusions that this will be easy,” Sumer told the Senate plenary, accusing Republicans of having an “immoral embrace” of the US arms lobby. However, he added: “It is necessary to give the effort a short time.”

Senate Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell told reporters that any Senate-approved proposal would need to be limited to addressing the “facts” of the Texas massacre.

He did not elaborate, but Republicans are broadly opposed to new arms embargoes that could violate the rights of legal gun owners.

Other Republicans have expressed possible interest in passing precautionary legislation that could encourage US states to refuse to give weapons to mentally ill or dangerous people, with the possible use of funds intended to address 19 be used to finance the initiative.

Based on the numerical distribution of seats in the 100-seat Senate, which is split 50-50 between the two parties, passing legislation to limit gun ownership will require the affirmative votes of ten Republicans to meet the basic requirement of 60 positive votes provided for in the Rules of Procedure of the Senate.

Source: AMPE

Source: Capital

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