Southwestern Illinois congressmen challenge Obama’s executive actions on gun control
From Illinois Business Journal news services
WASHINGTON — Two congressmen from Southwestern Illinois issued statements today, chastising the president’s executive actions to regulate gun purchases outside the legislative realm.
Congressman Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, who represents the 12th Congressional District, labeled the actions as restrictions on Second Amendment rights.
“Ever since taking office, the President has made it clear he was taking aim at American’s constitutional right to bear arms. Today is no exception. The President’s actions are not only legally dubious, but they impose substantial burdens on law-abiding citizens while doing little to nothing to stop criminals,” Bost’s statement said.
“As a father and grandfather, I’ve shared in the heartbreak we all feel when news breaks of another tragedy. That being said, if the President was serious about stopping the criminal use of firearms, he would more rigorously enforce existing laws rather than sidestepping Congressional authority and trying to make the laws himself.”
U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis, R-Taylorville, was equally vitriolic.
“Time and time again this president has shown a blatant disregard for our nation’s Constitution and unfortunately these latest actions are no different,” said Davis, who represents the 13th Congressional District. “I took an oath to support and defend the Constitution and will continue to protect Americans’ Second Amendment rights. We have a mental health crisis in this country that cannot be ignored and I hope the president will join Congress in trying to reform the system and address these issues legally and through our legislative process.”
Obama said he wants to rein in gun violence and, absent Congressional action that he has sought, said he will control gun purchases through more extensive background checks; by keeping guns out of the hands of those with mental health problems; and by beefing up the federal workforce involved in screenings, among other things.
Many of the means are likely to be met with legal action.
