Montco's US Rep. Boyle Joins Congressional Sit-In On Gun Reform

US Congressman Brendan Boyle, D-PA 13, who represents Montgomery County and parts of Philadelphia in the US House of Representatives, joined Democratic colleagues on the House floor Wednesday in the "sit-in" protesting inaction on gun reform legislation.

Boyle spoke about the dangers of gun violence and cited statistics showing that in the first centuries of the nation's existence, there was only one mass shooting; in the past thirty years, there have been 24.

"I can't believe that in a place I was raised to believe and do believe is the greatest country in the world, we are the country that by far leads the world in gun violence," Boyle said. "And most of it has happened in my lifetime."

Democrats and some Republicans worked to bring up legislation that would tighten gun restrictions in the wake of the tragedy in Orlando.

The legislation, which would have prevented individuals on the terrorist watch list from buying guns, as well as closing other loopholes.

Philadelphia's Congressman Bob Brady, D-PA 1, also expressed his support for the sit-in.

Democrats hoped their sit-in would pressure Republicans into another vote or into taking some steps to address the issue.

The House was a raucous scene Wednesday night as Speaker Paul Ryan attempted to bring the lawmakers to order and complete the day's business.

Boyle was matter of fact in the conclusion of his three minute speech during the sit-in.

"There is a stain on the soul of America," he said. "And we must heal it."

Image courtesy US Rep. Boyle's office.