Former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, Retired NASA Astronaut Captain Mark Kelly Throw Support behind Pete Aguilar

Press Release

Today, former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and her husband Captain Mark Kelly formally endorsed Congressman Pete Aguilar's re-election campaign. Giffords survived a near-fatal assassination attempt in 2011 at the hands of a mentally ill gunman and has since become a fierce advocate for sensible gun safety laws. Locally, the City of San Bernardino is on track to have its most homicides in one year since 1995. With less than four months left in 2016, nearly 50 people have been murdered in San Bernardino.

In a statement released by Americans for Responsible Solutions, Giffords and Captain Kelly said, "Pete Aguilar has been a tireless voice in Congress for responsible change that keeps guns out of the wrong hands, saves lives, and makes our communities safer. At every step, Congressman Aguilar has worked to help break the gun lobby's grip on Washington. We are grateful to have him as a champion for the vocal majority of Americans calling on Congress to act to reduce gun violence, and we look forward to continuing to stand with Pete Aguilar in the fight for safer communities."

Reacting to the endorsement, Congressman Aguilar stated, "Too many Inland Empire families have had to bear the unimaginable burden of losing a loved one to gun violence. We need commonsense solutions to make sure guns do not end up in the hands of criminals and those who cause senseless mass violence. I will continue to advocate for solutions that all Americans support, like banning people on the terrorist no-fly list from buying guns and universal background checks."

"While my opponent is busy touting his support from the National Rifle Association, I remain committed to working to bring Republicans and Democrats together to solve this critical problem affecting our communities. I am thankful and honored to have Gabby and Mark's incredible support."

Earlier this year, Congressman Aguilar participated in a sit-in on the House floor to force Congress to vote on two gun safety measures. These bipartisan bills would ban suspected terrorists from buying guns and expand background checks to include all gun sales to prevent criminals, the violently mentally ill, and domestic abusers from purchasing guns.

Pete Aguilar represents California's 31st congressional district. He is a strong advocate for economic growth and fairness in the Inland Empire and a leader who reaches across party lines to deliver results for San Bernardino County's middle class.

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