Republicans in the senate were politely told to have a seat after a filibuster, planned to block the debate on gun control, was shot down.
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In front of teary-eyed relatives of the Newtown school massacre, gun control supporters cleared the first hurdle in a long battle to strengthen gun laws.
On Thursday, 50 Democrats, 16 Republicans and 2 Independents opposed the Conservative effort, while 29 Republicans and 2 Democrats supported it. Gun control supporters needed 60 votes to block the Conservatives.
According to the Associated Press:
The 68-31 roll call gave an early burst of momentum to efforts by President Barack Obama and lawmakers to push fresh gun curbs through Congress. The National Rifle Association, along with many Republicans and some moderate Democrats, say the proposals go too far, and the road to congressional approval of major restrictions remains rocky.
Speaking out about the new gain for gun control supporters, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) acknowledged that it wouldn’t be an easy fight.
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“The hard work starts now,” Reid said after the vote. As he spoke, relatives of Newtown victims watching from the visitors’ gallery above the Senate floor wiped away tears and held hands, and some seemed to pray.
Here’s to hoping the progress continues!
SOURCE: AP
