Staff Reports
President Biden made a heartfelt plea for gun reform during his visit to Maine to honor the victims of a recent shooting tragedy. Last week, a deranged gunman, Robert Card, opened fire at Schemengees Bar and Grille and Just-In-Time Recreation, leaving 18 people dead and 13 injured.
Speaking outside Just-In-Time, President Biden emphasized the need for action to prevent further loss of life due to gun violence. He acknowledged the deep wounds that such incidents inflict on both the local community and the nation as a whole. The President stressed that too many Americans have been affected by gun violence, either losing their loved ones or experiencing the trauma firsthand.
However, in his speech, President Biden refrained from explicitly calling on Congress to pass any specific gun control measures. Instead, he expressed his belief that finding a consensus is achievable. He emphasized the importance of employing common sense and responsible measures to safeguard the freedom of citizens to enjoy public spaces without the fear of being shot and killed.
Biden calls for 'common sense' gun reform in Maine town where gunman killed 18 https://t.co/6jxRXvwiuG
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) November 3, 2023
Robert Card, the 40-year-old firearms instructor and Army reservist responsible for the massacre, had a history of mental illness. He was later found dead, having taken his own life. During their visit to Maine, President Biden and First Lady Jill Biden met with first responders, nurses, and others who played a crucial role in the immediate aftermath of the shooting. They also spent time with the victims and their families, offering their condolences and support.
Prior to his speech at the bowling alley, President Biden and the first lady visited Schemengees to pay their respects at the memorial set up outside the bar and grille. They left a bouquet of flowers as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity.
This tragic event serves as another somber reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive gun reform in the United States. President Biden’s visit to Maine highlights his commitment to addressing this issue and finding solutions to prevent further gun violence.
