Obama reacts to Parkland shooting, calls for ‘common-sense’ gun safety laws

Barack Obama theGrio.com — (Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)

Former President Barack Obama reacted to yesterday’s deadly school shooting in Parkland, Florida, sending his condolences to the victims’ families.

“We are grieving with Parkland. But we are not powerless. Caring for our kids is our first job,” Obama tweeted on Thursday morning.

The former commander-in-chief also called on Washington to take the issue of gun safety laws more seriously.

“And until we can honestly say that we’re doing enough to keep them safe from harm, including long overdue, common-sense gun safety laws that most Americans want, then we have to change.”

It looks like many Americans agree with Obama–the hashtag #GunReformNow became the number one trending topic on Twitter. The hashtag is currently being used to call out Congress to act now on reforming America’s gun laws.

What’s more, some are specifically taking aim at Republican Party and its relationship with the National Rifle Association, which spends millions in lobbying and GOP campaigns. Scott Dworkin of the Democratic Coalition blasted Sen. Ted Cruz in the following tweet: “Get off your ass & go on tv to talk about the blood money you take from the NRA. #GunReformNow.”

We are grieving with Parkland. But we are not powerless. Caring for our kids is our first job. And until we can honestly say that we’re doing enough to keep them safe from harm, including long overdue, common-sense gun safety laws that most Americans want, then we have to change.

— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) February 15, 2018

–READ: ‘She didn’t make it’: Shooting survivor recounts seeing best friend get shot in school–

Trump focuses less on gun laws, more on mental health

Instead of talking about America’s gun laws, President Donald Trump focused more on the mental health. In his televised remarks from the White House, Trump urged children to seek help if they feel “lost, alone, confused or even scared.”

“I want to speak now directly to America’s children, especially those who feel lost alone confused or even scared. I want you to know that you are never alone, and you never will be,” Trump said.

“You have people who care about you, who love you and who will do anything at all to protect you. If you need help, turn to a teacher, a family member, a local police officer or a faith leader. Answer hate with love. Answer cruelty with kindness.”

The president, who plans to soon visit Parkland, also said that he would address school safety policies later this month in a meeting with US governors and attorneys general.

“To every parent, teacher and child who is hurting so badly, we are here for you, whatever you need, whatever we can do, to ease your pain. We are all joined together as one American family and your suffering is our burden also,” Trump said. “No child, no teacher should ever be in danger in an American school. No parent should ever have to fear for their sons and daughters when they kiss them goodbye in the morning.”