Issue Position: Supporting Stronger Gun Control Laws

Issue Position

Gun violence and mass shootings have become all too common in our society, and we in Virginia have felt the tragic sting. We must make our communities safer.

Last year, U.S. gun deaths totaled 11,419 -- a heartbreaking statistic. This is the price we pay for the political fear some have of the NRA. When I ran for Governor, the NRA made me a target, and you may remember that Charlton Heston came to Virginia and campaigned against me. But that won't deter me from passing new and sensible gun laws. In fact, it makes me even more determined.

We need enhanced background checks now. Too many criminals, and those who are dangerously mentally ill, can obtain firearms at gun shows.

We have to close the gun show loophole, which allows people to purchase guns without background checks. I can't understand why the NRA opposes enhanced background checks, but we need to make this a priority.

I also favor banning high capacity magazines. These magazines, in the hands of dangerously mentally ill people, have caused tragedy after tragedy. The shootings at schools, like Sandy Hook in Connecticut and Virginia Tech, must stop. After every mass shooting, there is a lot of support for banning high capacity magazines, but then the months go by and Congress does nothing. I'm committed to pushing for this sensible reform, and I'll stand up to the NRA in Congress.

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