Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the urgency of addressing gun violence at a campaign event in Maryland in support of Angela Alsobrooks, a Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate. Harris, speaking on National Gun Violence Awareness Day, called for the implementation of additional federal laws to curb gun violence.
Alsobrooks, who recently secured victory over U.S. Rep. David Trone, is now facing a competitive race against former Republican Governor Larry Hogan for a Senate seat in Maryland. If elected, Alsobrooks would become Maryland's first Black U.S. senator and the nation's third Black woman to hold such a position.
During the rally, Alsobrooks pledged support for legislation advocating universal background checks, a ban on military-style assault weapons, and measures to combat illegal firearms trafficking. She also emphasized the importance of holding gun manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by their products.
Senator Chris Van Hollen highlighted Hogan's past endorsement by the National Rifle Association (NRA) and his subsequent shift on gun control measures. Hogan, who previously received an A-minus rating from the NRA, has since expressed support for an assault weapons ban at the national level.
In response to Alsobrooks' campaign focus on gun violence prevention, Hogan's team urged her to address rising crime rates in Prince George's County. The Hogan campaign outlined a plan to combat crime, including increased law enforcement funding and measures to remove firearms from individuals with mental illnesses or violent criminal histories.
The upcoming Senate race in Maryland holds significance for both parties, as Democrats aim to maintain their slim majority in the Senate. With the path to the majority potentially running through Maryland, the outcome of this election could have far-reaching implications for national gun control policies.
