Everytown Responds to Mark and Patricia McCloskey’s Remarks at RNC

NEW YORK — Today, Everytown for Gun Safety sent the following statements in response to Mark and Patricia McCloskey’s remarks at the Republican National Convention. The couple gained national attention after they pointed guns at Black Lives Matter protesters in St. Louis. 

“It comes as no surprise that Trump is giving a national bullhorn to the couple who pointed guns at Black Lives Matter protesters, given that his administration fired rubber bullets and tear gas at protestors at Lafayette Square,” said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. “But just as that dangerous stunt backfired on him in the court of public opinion, Trump’s embrace of the McCloskeys will repel far more voters than it attracts.”

“Giving these gun-toting clowns who threatened violence against Black Lives Matter protesters a platform is not just an insult to Americans who are fighting for racial justice, it’s also a clear signal to racists and white supremacists whose side President Trump is on,” said Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action. 

“It’s clear that gun safety was not on the agenda tonight,” said Pete Lucier, a Marine Corps combat veteran and member of Everytown’s Veteran Advisory Council who lives in St. Louis. “In July, I watched on as the McCloskeys waved loaded weapons at peaceful protestors in my hometown, violating basic weapon safety principles. Tonight, I am again in disbelief seeing them given a platform after their risky actions. Promoting their lack of firearm discipline is dangerous and irresponsible. This November, let’s elect candidates who condemn dangerous behavior, not celebrate it.”