Freshman Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Texas, sparked an intense and emotional reaction following the mass shootings in Dayton, Ohio, and El Paso, Texas, when he encouraged a discussion about measures to prevent gun violence. On Twitter, Crenshaw wrote, “These disgusting mass shootings have been following a pattern ever since Columbine. Sick and lonely men have decided this is how they will vent their frustration.…The solutions aren’t obvious, even if we pretend they are. But we must try. Let’s start with the TAPS Act. Maybe also implement state ‘red flag’ laws, or gun violence restraining orders. Stop them before they can hurt someone.”

Many of his social media followers were nonplussed. On Instagram one declared, “Well that sellout was quick.” Another reasoned: “You already f—ed it up. You’re losing your base.” Another characterized Crenshaw’s nuanced take as “sprinkling sugar on dog shit.”