Democrats stage sit-in, House erupts in chaos

The leadership of the Republican party, which holds a majority in the House, refused to budge and instead shut off the television cameras used for live coverage. The Democratic Congressmen used their smartphones to live telecast — through social media — the proceedings inside the House along with their sit-in demonstrations in the House well. Images from inside the well of the House reflected a chaotic situation rarely seen. 

Democratic lawmakers were demanding that Paul Ryan, Speaker of the House of Representatives bring up a vote on commonsense gun violence prevention legislation before the House recesses. 

Refusing to budge under pressure, Ryan described this as a publicity stunt by Democrats. “Were not going to take away a citizen’s constitutional right without due process. That was already defeated in the Senate. And this is not the way to try and bring up legislation,” he said. 

House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer demanded that Republicans hold a vote on legislation on gun violence. “It is unconscionable that Republicans would continue to block a vote even on common-sense safeguards, including expanding background checks and preventing dangerous arms from being sold to terror suspects. This is an issue that ought to transcend party — it’s about saving lives and keeping our communities safe,” he said.