Senator Chris Murphy’s Filibuster for Gun Control

On June 15, 2016, Senator Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator from Connecticut, initiated a significant filibuster on the floor of the United States Senate. This action was motivated by the tragic mass shooting that took place on June 12, 2016, at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, where 49 people were killed, and 53 others were wounded, marking it one of the deadliest incidents of gun violence in modern U.S. history.

Precipitating Events

• Orlando Nightclub Shooting: The impetus for Murphy’s filibuster was the mass shooting at Pulse, an event that underscored ongoing national debates about gun control.
• Senator Murphy’s Background: Representing a state deeply scarred by the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, where 26 people, including 20 children, lost their lives, Murphy had been a vocal advocate for more stringent gun control measures.

Filibuster Details

• Duration: The filibuster lasted nearly 15 hours, beginning in the late morning of June 15 and concluding after midnight.
• Purpose: Murphy aimed to pressure Senate leaders to address gun control legislation. He specifically sought votes on measures to expand background checks and to prevent individuals on federal terrorism watch lists from purchasing firearms.
• Support and Participation: Murphy was joined by nearly 40 Democratic senators and two Independents, who participated by asking questions and offering support, allowing the filibuster to continue.

Legislation Proposal

• Background Checks Expansion: Advocated for the closing of loopholes in the federal background check system, particularly concerning gun shows and private sales.
• Terrorist Watch List: Campaigned for legislation to block individuals on the U.S. government’s terrorism watch list from acquiring guns.

Immediate Aftermath

• Policy Debate: The filibuster heightened public discourse and brought renewed attention to gun control efforts in the Senate.
• Senate Reaction: Following Murphy’s efforts, Senate leadership permitted votes on several gun control proposals, although they ultimately failed to pass due to party-line opposition.

Historical Significance

Murphy’s filibuster is notable not only for its duration but for revitalizing legislative and public discussions about gun control amidst increasing incidents of mass shootings across the United States. It reflected the intense political divides over Second Amendment rights and the balance of addressing public safety concerns through legislative action.