Friend,

For decades, Republicans have stood on the sidelines – resolved to inaction – as countless Americans were killed by gun violence.

This year, the national numbers of victims from this devastation are on track to break records. And yet the Republicans continue to defend unfettered access to weapons of war. Over the last few weeks alone, these weapons were purchased legally and used to murder people shopping at a grocery store. They were used to tear apart the bodies of children – beyond their parents’ recognition – as they huddled in their classroom.

Year after year, these same elected Republicans have blocked everything from expanded background checks to red flag laws to limits on high-capacity magazines. All were common sense policies offered up by Democrats with overwhelming public support, and all were blocked because the Republican Party is bought, paid for, and owned by the gun lobby.

How much longer will Republican gridlock on guns persist? How many more lives will it take? It really is put up or shut up time for the Republican Party. Too many lives have been lost due to their cowardice and obstruction.

For as long as gun violence has plagued our nation, Democrats have had solutions. All it will take is a meaningful number of Republicans to get off the sidelines, rise above mere thoughts and prayers, and act.

If you’re as angry as I am, and if you’re more resolved than ever to force the GOP to act on gun violence, then I am asking you to sign this urgent petition: Add your name immediately to demand the Republican Party STOP blocking common sense reforms to prevent gun violence in America.

Thank you,

Dick