Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have offered a few thoughts following the mass shooting that took place in Boulder, Colorado this week. The former President started off offering his condolences for the families who lost loved ones in the tragedy. Then, he shifted his attention toward American lawmakers and the push to curb gun violence nationwide.
"A once-in-a-century pandemic cannot be the only thing that slows mass shootings in this country," he said.
"It is long past time for those with the power to fight this epidemic of gun violence to do so. It will take time to root out the disaffection, racism and misogyny that fuels so many of these senseless acts of violence. But we can make it harder for those with hate in their hearts to buy weapons of war. We can overcome opposition by cowardly politicians and the pressure of a gun lobby that opposes any limit on the ability of anyone to assemble an arsenal. We can, and we must."
Barack Obama was not the only person in his household to call out lawmakers on Capitol Hill. His wife, Michelle Obama, pointed out how much harder it is to vote in many states than buy a firearm. In doing so, she continued to advocate for the "For The People" act that will seemingly make it easier for many Americans to vote. The bill would expand voter registration access, make Election Day a national holiday and much more.
"I’m heartbroken by these recent tragedies of gun violence, and I just keep thinking about all the leaders who won’t take a stand to save lives and yet line up to pass bills that make it harder for us to vote," the bestselling author tweeted.
"The [For the People Act] is a chance to reaffirm that in America, the power rests with the people. It’s our best chance in a generation to protect and strengthen our democracy."
These comments come days after 21-year-old Ahmad Al Aliwi Alissa opened fire at King Soopers supermarket in Boulder, Colorado. He killed 10 people and has since been taken into custody. The Colorado resident is facing 10 counts of first-degree murder.
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