Here comes the long arm of a certain New York official, reaching all the way to the heart of Dixie, or thereabouts.
On Wednesday, Mayors Against Illegal Guns began to broadcast advocacy ads in Arkansas, demanding that Sen. Mark Pryor - a Democrat - take action to pass “commonsense” gun reforms in his state.
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“These ads bring the voices of Americans - who overwhelmingly support comprehensive and enforceable background checks - into the discussion to move Senators to immediately take action to prevent gun violence,” said Mayors Against Illegal Guns co-chair and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
“We demanded a plan and we got one. We demanded a vote and we’ll get one. Now we’re doing what we can to pass a bill that will save lives,” Mr. Bloomberg adds.
The mayor is no doubt preparing for Thursday, which he has declared “National Day to Demand Action,” which features 100 grassroots-style events around the nation, plus a petition drive against gun violence. Lawmakers can prepare for a few phone calls as well.
“While they are home for this recess, members of Congress will hear directly from their constituents who support sensible gun law reforms like expanded background checks,” notes the coalition’s co-Chair and Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino. “The legislation is on the table - it’s time for our leaders in Washington to act.”
Arkansas is only the beginning though. Mr. Bloomberg’s $18 million ad campaign - which he paid for himself - will soon begin airing the coalition’s gun reform messages in another dozen states, including Georgia, Indiana, Ohio and New Hampshire.
