Here’s what they had to say…
Senate negotiators have indicated progress has been made toward securing a deal to address gun violence but are requesting more time to finalize any packages.
Lead Republican negotiator, Sen. John Cornyn (Texas), said negotiators are “hovering above the target” but hadn’t concluded anything, mentioning that they would need another week to resolve differences. He also urged Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer to give negotiators the time and not anything to the Senate floor a vote, saying, “Good consensus legislation takes time.”
He added that Schumer should let his members “work” as there is “no use in rushing a vote on a doomed partisan bill like the House is expected to vote on this week.”
Later this week, the House is expected to vote on legislation aimed at raising the legal age to purchase semi-automatic rifles to 21, creating tax incentives for gun dealers who safely store equipment, and banning large-capacity magazines. However, the legislation is expected to fail as it is unlikely to get the 60 votes necessary to overcome the filibuster.
In the Senate, banning the AR-15 assault rifles used in Uvalde, Texas, and Buffalo, New York shootings are off the table, so are requiring background checks for all gun sales ad transfers.
Instead, Senate negotiators are focusing on encouraging states to set up red flag laws, promoting storing firearms safely, and addressing mental health.
