The Colorado chapter of Moms Demand Action led the way. Stated the chapter’s leader, Karin Arsensio,
Less than a month ago, just before the 20-year mark of the shooting at Columbine High School, 19 school districts across Colorado were closed after a credible threat.
Today, our fears were realized again when we heard of the shooting at STEM School. We shouldn’t have to live like this. Our children shouldn’t be scared to go to school, and we as parents shouldn’t be scared to drop them off each day. We must do more to prevent gun violence in our schools and communities.
Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) was right behind, asking rhetorically, “How many more of our children’s schools must be torn apart by gun violence until Congress does something? We need gun reform. Now.”
She was followed by Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.): “My heart goes out to the victims and their families at the STEM School Highlands Ranch, just eight miles away from Columbine High School. This has to stop. We must pass federal laws to end gun violence.”
Behind her was Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), who tweeted that the government had “more federal regulation over toy guns than real ones,” and then, in a separate tweet, said, “Another day, another school shooting. Every hour we wait more people are murdered — we have to pass comprehensive gun safety reform.”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) echoed Booker: “Another school shooting. Another life cut far too short. Another family and community changed. Forever.”
“Mayor Pete” Buttigieg called for more “common sense gun reform” calling the STEM shooting part of a “mass epidemic”: “We have to solve the mass shooting epidemic. We — especially our students — should feel safe in our communities. I’m praying for the students and families from STEM School Highlands Ranch, and will not rest until we deliver common-sense gun reform.”
Not to be left behind, Senator Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) also asked rhetorically just how many more children would have “to watch their classmates get shot before Congress and the White House act?”
California Representative Eric Swalwell e-mailed his sympathy and promise: “Today, our hearts go to Douglas County, CO and the victims of the shooting today. As I talk about the big and bold ideas on other issues, I promise that ending gun violence comes first.”