1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

On Saturday, a 20-year-old gunman with a legally purchased AR15-style assault rifle attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his campaign rally, resulting in President Trump sustaining an injury to his ear, the death of one spectator, Corey Comperatore, and critical injuries to two others. The FBI is investigating the attack as a potential act of domestic terrorism, though no clear ideological motive has been identified. Assault weapons are a threat to all elected leaders, politicians, school children, church parishoners, movie and concert goers, shoppers, and other Americans. We cannot stand idly by as our nation continues to be torn apart by gun violence. The shooting at President Trump’s rally was the 293rd mass shooting incident of this year. It is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by assault weapons in the hands of civilians. These weapons of war have been used time and time again to inflict mass casualties in any type of public venues, and it is beyond time for Congress to act. I urge you to immediately pass H.R. 698/S. 25, the comprehensive federal assault weapons ban legislation. This critical measure aims to remove military-style firearms from civilian use, thereby reducing the likelihood of mass shootings and saving countless lives. We urge members of Congress to prioritize the safety and well-being of all Americans by enacting this lifesaving legislation. In addition to calling for an assault weapons ban, I call on all political leaders to denounce all forms of violence unequivocally and to foster a culture of respect and dialogue. Political violence threatens the very foundation of our democracy, and it is imperative that we address it with the seriousness it deserves. No one should have to live in fear of being shot, whether they are in a classroom or attending a political event. I urge you to stand in solidarity with all victims of gun violence to fight for a safer, more peaceful future for our nation. Thanks.