The National Rifle Association released a statement in reaction to mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, that took place 13 hours apart this weekend.
“Our deepest sympathies are with the families and victims of these tragedies, as well as the entire communities of El Paso and Dayton,” the statement read. “On behalf of our millions of members, we salute the courage of the first responders and others offering their services during this time.”
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The NRA stressed that it remains committed to the “safe and lawful” use of firearms under the protection of the Second Amendment.
“We will not participate in the politicizing of these tragedies but, as always, we will work in good faith to pursue real solutions that protect us all from people who commit these horrific acts,” the statement concluded.
A gunman attacked a Walmart in El Paso on Saturday, using an AK-47-style rifle that killed 20 people and injured more than two dozen people. The gunman surrendered to police and was arrested without incident. The state is seeking the death penalty for the suspect.
In the early morning hours on Sunday, another gunman attacked a popular bar and restaurant area in Dayton, killing nine people and wounding 16 before responding police shot and killed him.
Critics of the NRA, including 2020 Democrats, blamed the gun rights group, as well as President Trump, for the violence and have called for stricter gun laws.
