“Our progress in Washington proves that inaction from our federal officials is a choice. That choice is costing American lives every single day. A majority of Americans want to see action to prevent gun violence. It is past time for our elected officials to choose to protect the people they represent, not the gun lobby. Congress must reinstate restrictions on assault weapons to keep weapons of war off our streets, expand background checks, close the Charleston loophole, which allows gun purchases if the background check is not completed within three business days, and pass other common-sense proposals that voters have been asking for years.

Until they find the courage to act, Washington state will keep leading the way.”

Read the full piece from Renée Hopkins in the Seattle Times.