Representative Bill Keating (D-Mass) told Boston Public Radio Wednesday that he thinks Republicans are intentionally obstructing Congress from voting on gun reform legislation.
"We are being deprived of having a vote on these issues. The majority leadership under Paul Ryan is blocking votes," said Keating.
Keating went on to say that there is already legislation co-sponsored by Republicans and Democrats that won't ever see the light of day unless there is a vote. Keating blames Republican leaders for being too afraid of having to face a vote on gun reform that may actually pass or impact their poll numbers.
President Trump, a strong supporter of the NRA, has said he is willing to make concessions in the wake of last week's shooting at a high school in Parkland, Fla. Trump has suggested strengthening background checks and banning bump stocks, but he would need cooperation from Congress to make these changes happen.
Keating said he is still hopeful that if Congress does eventually get to vote on gun legislation, reforms may finally pass.
"We really need a vote. I think we will have progress, because I do think there are enough people on both sides of the aisle to advance many of these measures," Keating said.
Rep. Bill Keating serves as ranking member on the Terrorism and Nonproliferation and Trade Subcommittee of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. He’s also an active member of the Europe, Eurasia and Emerging Threats Subcommittee. To hear his full interview with Boston Public Radio, click on the audio player above.
