In response to President Obama’s proposal to curb gun violence in America and enact new gun and weapons control measures, U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Savannah) had this to say:

“We owe this country a thorough and thoughtful discussion on what actions can be taken to prevent future tragedies.  Unfortunately, this national debate is already digressing into the usual camps and an ‘us versus them’ mentality.  The victims of Newtown and all victims of gun violence deserve better.

“I am encouraged that the President has put mental health as well as the relationship between video games, media images, and violence on the table.  I am disappointed, however, that he would immediately resort to executive orders rather than working with Congress on a comprehensive legislative response.

“As someone in elected office, I am very concerned that the President’s approach will divide this country in a way we have not been before.  Gun sales have been through the roof over the past month and the intensity of email traffic my office is receiving is worrisome.  The President should take a leadership role and say ‘let’s take a step back to approach this issue calmly.’

“As to the specific legislative proposals the President advocates, I am doubtful some of them pass constitutional muster or would be effective in preventing another Newtown.  The perpetrators of mass violence do not concern themselves with what laws they are breaking in the commission of their crimes. 

“We are united in our desire to prevent gun violence.  Let’s put aside the failed old arguments of the past and come together to accomplish that task in a meaningful way.”