The cameras were down but the Democrats made sure their protest was witnessed and their message heard. In what could probably be one of the most dramatic scenes in US Congress, Democratic Party members were seen sitting-in on the House floor and refusing to leave until Republicans agreed to hold a vote on gun control. The divisive debate on stricter gun control regulations has surfaced once again as the public demands accountability for the the fatal shooting of 49 people in an Orlando nightclub.
The demonstration, led by civil rights icon Rep. John Lewis, has disrupted normal legislative proceedings and was met with disdain by Republicans. Paul Ryan, the Republican speaker of the House, has called the protest a publicity stunt.
President Barack Obama on the other hand, a vocal advocate of stricter gun control laws, voiced his support and appreciation for Lewis’ initiative in Twitter: “Thank you John Lewis for leading on gun violence where we need it most.”
The Republican-controlled Congress called for a recess in response to the protest and all the cameras and microphones were shut off. But the Democrats remain unfazed and brought their demonstrations to social media with the hashtag #NoBillNoBreak. A live feed from Democrat Rep. Scott Peters’ smartphone broadcasted the entire incident.
“They can cut off the mics, they can cut off the cameras, but they will not silence our voice,” said Democratic Rep. Jarred Huffman.
