Rep. Collins: I Will Be Carrying Concealed Moving Forward

By Beth Baumann

Members of Congress are contemplating how to move forward after yesterday’s attack on Republican members. Some have thought about the need for security details. Others have suggested concealed carry reciprocity for Congress. Rep. Chris Collins (R-NY) said he would no longer walk around without a firearm.

“I have a carry permit. From this day forward, I will be carrying when I’m out and about,” Collins told WKBW. “On a rare occasion I’d have my gun in a glove box or something, but it’s going to be in my pocket from this day forward.”

LISTEN: @RepChrisCollins says he’ll carry a handgun at public events moving forward. #VAshooting @WKBW @ABC pic.twitter.com/3Im9bUtiiM

— Ali Touhey (@Ali2e) June 14, 2017

Collins was not one of the representatives in attendance at the Congressional baseball practice game yesterday.

After learning about the gunman’s political affiliation, Rep. Collins called on members of both political parties to tone down the political rhetoric.

Congressman Chris Collins’ Statement on Shooting in Alexandria, Virginia: pic.twitter.com/DZIn8jVwQ4

— Rep. Chris Collins (@RepChrisCollins) June 14, 2017

During an interview, Collins encouraged his Democratic counterparts to follow suit.