Staff Reports
President Joe Biden is tackling the issue of gun violence head-on by creating the first-ever federal office of gun violence prevention. This office will serve as a central hub for coordinating efforts across the federal government and will provide assistance to states grappling with rising gun violence rates. It will also take the lead on implementing the bipartisan gun legislation that was signed into law last year. Biden is expected to make a formal announcement about the new office at an event on Friday at the White House.
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Gun safety activists, who rallied together to endorse Biden for president, are thrilled with the creation of this office. They believe it marks a significant turning point in how the federal government addresses the epidemic of gun violence that affects every state and community in America. The president’s focus on banning “assault weapons” and his calls for action from Congress demonstrate his commitment to keeping this issue front and center.
The newly created office will have some esteemed individuals leading the charge. Greg Jackson, the executive director of the Community Justice Action Fund, and Rob Wilcox from Everytown for Gun Safety are expected to play important roles. Stef Feldman, the White House staff secretary, will oversee the office. This announcement has already garnered attention, with The Washington Post being the first to report on it.
The need for gun violence prevention efforts is evident from the alarming statistics. Firearms are the leading cause of death for children in the United States. So far this year, 220 children under the age of 11 have died from guns, and 1,049 between the ages of 12 and 17 have also lost their lives. The firearm mortality rate for those under the age of 19 is 5.6 per 100,000, compared to 0.08 deaths per 100,000 in Canada.
While the issue of gun control can be politically divisive, both Democrats and Republicans recognize the importance of reducing mass shootings. A recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found that 92% of Democrats want stronger gun laws. However, Republican support for more expansive legislation has dropped to 32% from 49% last summer, and independent support has also slightly declined to 61% from 72%.
The urgency to address mass shootings is evident in the current data. So far in 2023, there have been at least 35 mass killings in the U.S., resulting in the deaths of at least 171 individuals. This puts the country on track for more mass killings than any other year since 2006, according to a database maintained by the AP and USA Today.
President Biden’s creation of the federal office of gun violence prevention is a bold step towards combatting the epidemic of gun violence in America. By bringing together experts, coordinating efforts, and implementing effective solutions, this office has the potential to save countless lives. It highlights Biden’s commitment to making meaningful changes to reduce gun violence and keep our communities safe.
