Salem Congressman Refuses to Attend Future House Moments of Silence

• Photo credit: Office of Congressman Seth Moulton

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the heels of the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, many are calling for further action in order to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. 

Rep. Seth Moulton (D-MA), who represents Salem, has joined Rep. Jim Himes (D-CT) in a boycott of House of Representatives moments of silence. On Monday, Himes and a handful of Democrats left the house during the moment of silence in remembrance of the victims who were lost during a shooting at a night club in Orlando. 

So I’m joining @jahimes in not attending any more House “Moments of Silence” for mass shooting victims. Walked out of my first one tonight.
— Seth Moulton (@sethmoulton) June 14, 2016

This morning my team debated my response to this mass shooting. It’s sadly a worthwhile debate because we know it will happen again—soon.
— Seth Moulton (@sethmoulton) June 13, 2016

Many people have expressed frustration with the “thoughts and prayers” I and others tweeted yesterday, demanding more. They’re right.
— Seth Moulton (@sethmoulton) June 13, 2016

According to a report by CBS, the exchange and protest began after Jim Clyburn (D-SC) attempted to ask House Speaker Paul Ryan when gun control legislation would be considered. Ryan did not recognize Clyburn's question, prompting Democrats to yell, "Where's the bill?" and "No leadership!" after the moment of silence.

RELATED:

• Two of the victims that were identified as of Monday afternoon had Massachusetts ties.

• The Boston Fire Department is sending two of its own to Orlando for aid.

• Local religious organizations have taken to social media to react. The Sharon-based Islamic Center of New England has condemned the attack.

• Communities from across the state stood in solidarity with the victims. Resilient crowds celebrated their Pride in Boston (photos here).

The shooting took place at Pulse Orlando Night Club & Ultra Lounge, a popular gay bar, where about 350 people were dancing and drinking. Officials say that 50 people were killed and 53 people were injured. 

After the shooting, Moulton released the following statement. 

“My thoughts and prayers are with all the victims of this morning’s tragic mass shooting, particularly the LGBT community. In these dark days, I hope the love and support of so many millions of Americans will give some solace to those most closely impacted by this horrific shooting. Fear and ignorance will never replace our commitment to fundamental American values, including that of equality. In the days ahead, we will hold those responsible accountable, and I hope Congress will act to confront hate, terror, and gun violence in all forms.”

Moulton lives in Salem and serves on the board of the Salem YMCA. He attended Phillips Academy in Andover and Harvard College. 

>>>>>>>Patch reached out to Moulton's office for comment on this story, but the Congressman was not immediately available.