Tennessee Congressmen Jim Cooper and Steve Cohen joined dozens of House Democrats in the sit-in that began Wednesday morning.
The Democrats say they will prevent the House from taking its Fourth of July break next week unless Republicans allow a vote on the so-called “no-fly, no-buy” gun-control bill.
The Commercial Appeal reports Cohen said he agrees that if someone is on the no-fly list, they shouldn't be allowed to buy a weapon. Cooper, of Nashville, said he stands with Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, who is leading the protest.
Laziest Congress ever on all kinds of issues. Proud to stand with @repjohnlewis. pic.twitter.com/xy6rYL1cDQ— Jim Cooper (@repjimcooper) June 22, 2016
In response to the sit-in, Rep. Diane Black, R-Gallatin, tweeted a link to an interview Monday in which she spoke about being physically assaulted more than 15 years ago. That event led her to buy a gun.
“I now have a carry permit," she told WTN. "I now feel safe because I am protecting myself and you know what? I have the right to do that. And I tell other people, I don’t want that right taken away from me.”
Congressman Scott DesJarlais, R-South Pittsburgh, says he sees the real issue as "Islamic extremism," not the Second Amendment.
Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Brentwood, agrees.
Democrats “occupying” the House floor to politicize Orlando terror attack. Gun control won’t stop ISIS.— Marsha Blackburn (@MarshaBlackburn) June 22, 2016
Copyright 2016 WPLN News
