Connecticut has reason to be proud of its U.S. senator, Chris Murphy, for his determination — and stamina — in trying to keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of would-be terrorists.
On Wednesday, he waged a 15-hour filibuster into the early hours of Thursday, demanding a vote on expanded gun background checks and a ban on gun sales to suspected terrorists. He only sat down when he received assurances from leaders of the Republican majority that such a vote would take place.
Murphy represented Newtown at the time of the 2012 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School, where 20 children and six educators died. He has been fighting ever since for sensible guns laws.
His concern about the issue was reignited after the largest mass shooting in American history took place in Orlando early Sunday.
We have long observed Murphy’s dedication to this issue, but he serves in a body that seems unable to take action — one way or another. The Congress, both in the House and in the Senate, has been locked in a virtual stalemate where even doing — and funding — the ordinary business of the government has become a challenge. Thus, we are particularly impressed that he found a way to act on an issue he strongly believes in.
At the same time, we should give a nod to another Connecticut leader, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes who, on Tuesday, walked out on the House’s de rigueur moment of silence, which was said to honor the victims of the Orlando shooting. Himes deplored this tired ritual that stood in place of action by Congress that would keep guns out of the hands of “a madman.” He, too, spoke of Sandy Hook.
Both men stood up for what they believe in, not for what some lobbyist expected and, for that alone, we should be proud of those we chose to represent us. Whether you, the reader, agree with their point of view or not, please appreciate the honesty of their beliefs — and the courage it took to take action in these difficult times.
