One Texas state senator is ready to discuss gun laws following a school shooting in his district, even if he says he has to “yell” at Republican Gov. Greg Abbott to see change.
State Democratic Sen. Roland Gutierrez shared his concerns regarding gun safety issues with CNN’s Dana Bash on Sunday’s “State of the Union.”
Asked if he had any hope for changed gun laws in his state, Gutierrez responded, “I ran for office because I am hopeful.”
He continued with his plans to push for common-sense gun law changes in the Lone Star State.
“If I do nothing for the rest of my career but yell at Greg Abbott and others that are not willing to listen, then that’s what I’m willing to do. We must have change,” he added.
The state senator also addressed the state’s lack of emphasis on mental health issues, claiming that Texas is the last in the nation in the area.
Gutierrez is one of a number of lawmakers who sent a letter to Abbott demanding a special session to address gun safety laws.
“Texas has suffered more mass shootings over the past decade than any other state. In Sutherland Springs, 26 people died. At Santa Fe High School outside Houston, 10 people died. In El Paso, 23 people died at a Walmart. Seven people died in Midland-Odessa,” the letter read.
The TX Senate Democratic Caucus sent a letter to Gov Abbott demanding a special session to pass common sense gun safety laws. We can’t wait for another tragedy to take action. Texas has the power to protect its people. It’s time state leaders do so. #Uvalde #txlege #GunSafetyNow pic.twitter.com/wsJofwM2d5
— Carol Alvarado (@CarolforTexas) May 28, 2022
“After each of these mass killings, you have held press conferences and roundtables promising things would change. After the slaughter of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, those broken promises have never rung more hollow. The time to take real action is now,” the letter added.
Abbott has responded by stating that all options are on the table.
“You can expect robust discussion and my hope is laws are passed, that I will sign, addressing health care in this state,” he said. “That status quo is unacceptable. This crime is unacceptable. We’re not going to be here and do nothing about it.”
Gutierrez also posted a video of the governor’s response earlier in the week, arguing, “Texans are pissed off. These made-for-TV press conferences are not enough.” The senator walked out of the event following his heated words.
Texans are pissed off. These made-for-TV press conferences are not enough. I am demanding @GregAbbott_TX send us back to Austin for a special session on guns. It’s time for action. #GunSafetyNow #DemandSpecialSession #BringUsBack #Uvalde #txlege pic.twitter.com/P6Cx4zo0D0
— Senator Roland Gutierrez (@RolandForTexas) May 27, 2022
Source: Dailywire
