Gabby Giffords’ gun reform group endorses Soto
The gun-reform organization co-founded by Gabrielle Giffords has endorsed U.S. Rep. Darren Soto, D-Kissimmee, in his Democratic congressional primary.
The group, also called Giffords, was founded by the former Arizona Democratic congresswoman and her husband, retired astronaut Mark Kelly. She was severely wounded in a 2011 shooting that killed six.
The group cited Soto’s vote against a bill that would have allowed people to carry concealed weapons across state lines and his advocacy of requiring background checks on sales.
“Darren Soto is a fighter who has stood up to the gun lobby in Congress, refused to stay silent on the need to address our gun violence crisis, and championed legislation that will save lives,” Gabby Giffords said in a statement. “We look forward to continuing our work with Darren as we push for the solutions that will keep our schools, streets, churches, and neighborhoods safe.”
Soto called Gabby Giffords “a singular force in American life … the definition of courage.” all gun
“It is humbling to have her support,” he said. “The NRA is a determined opponent, but the great majority of Americans are seeing through their lies. Together, we will overcome them and pass real gun safety reform.”
The endorsement is part of Giffords’ “#VoteCourage” campaign designed to elect gun-reform advocates to Congress and defeat officeholders who oppose gun reform.
Isabelle James, political director for the Giffords group, said Soto has been a “consistent champion” of gun reform since coming to Washington in 2017, compared with his past positions on gun rights, which earned him an A rating from the National Rifle Association.
“Folks initially pointed to his record in the state legislature, but we knew he would stand up and do the right thing when he came to Congress,” she said. “Clearly he’s evolved politically on this issue since the shooting at Pulse nightclub, and he’s been steadfast on everything since. I don’t think there’s a single policy on gun safety up now he’s not signed on to.”
Soto faces former congressman Alan Grayson in the Aug. 28 primary for District 9.