CONCORD, NH – In the aftermath of two horrific mass shootings at Brown University and at Bondi Beach in Australia, House Republicans held a press conference earlier today to confront a hard truth Democrats refuse to acknowledge. Gun control does not stop violence. It only ensures that law-abiding people are left defenseless.
At both locations, strict gun control regimes were in place. At both locations, innocent people were massacred. The lesson is clear and it is one Democrats continue to ignore.
House Republicans reiterated their commitment to protecting students, families, and citizens by rejecting failed gun control policies and advancing commonsense measures that allow law abiding Americans to defend themselves.
House Majority Leader Jason Osborne (R-Auburn) said the events should be a wake up call for lawmakers across the country.
“These tragedies prove what history has shown again and again. Gun free zones create soft targets. When Democrats push more gun control, they are not preventing violence. They are guaranteeing that the only people without firearms are the innocent.”
Deputy House Majority Leader Joe Sweeney (R-Salem) emphasized that New Hampshire will not follow the path of failed policies pushed by the political left.
“Democrats want America to look like Australia. Disarmed citizens. Total government control. And the same horrific outcomes. We reject that model completely. Our responsibility is to protect freedom and protect lives, not surrender both.”
Representative Sam Farrington (R-Rochester), sponsor of the Campus Carry legislation, spoke directly about the consequences of leaving students defenseless.
“College campuses are not immune from violence. Pretending they are does not make students safer. Our Campus Carry bill is about ensuring that law abiding adults are not forced to be helpless victims while waiting for help that may come too late.”
Assistant Majority Whip Sayra DeVito (R-Danville), Chair of the House Republican 2A Coalition, criticized Democrats for exploiting tragedy to advance political goals.
“Every time something terrible happens, Democrats respond with the same playbook. More restrictions. More control. Less freedom. And more victims. The Second Amendment exists precisely for moments like these.”
House Republicans concluded by reaffirming their commitment to defending the Second Amendment, opposing gun free zones, and advancing policies that prioritize real public safety over political theater.