Golden Statement on House Firearms Legislation

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released the following statement on his vote against gun control legislation in the House today:

"Maine isn't Chicago, Washington, or New York. For many of my constituents, access to firearms is a necessary part of daily life and we have a tradition of responsible gun ownership."

"Today's bill in the House was a near mirror image of the Question 3 ballot initiative that Mainers soundly rejected in 2016, with all 11 counties in the Second District opposing the measure. While many Mainers support background checks for gun sales, this bill would have required them for personal transfers, including many common loans and trades between individuals.

"To keep firearms out of the hands of criminal offenders, we need to strictly enforce the background check system already in place and provide it with the resources necessary to work. I support increased funding for the NICS system to improve and automate the process, eliminate backlogs, and reduce human error. I will oppose efforts to erode our existing background check system because I know that most Mainers support this system and want it to work effectively and efficiently.

"I believe my votes today were the right decision, but I know some of my constituents will feel differently. To those who do, I commit to continue to listen to you and work with you to find areas where we do agree and can work together, today and every day that I have the privilege of serving our state."