In the wake of another senseless tragedy, it’s time for Washington to listen to the people — not special-interest lobbyists. Americans have repeatedly told Congress they support reasonable, common-sense solutions to reduce gun violence. Closing loopholes, raising the legal age to purchase a firearm, banning bump stocks and allowing temporary suspension of a person’s access to firearms with evidence of a serious threat to themselves or others all have bipartisan support and would make a positive difference.

I support the Second Amendment, but I have traveled all over southern Minnesota, and people recognize the responsibility required to use guns safely. No one law will stop all gun violence, but there is more we can do to reduce the risk of mass shootings and other types of gun crime. Abused women, for example, are five times more likely to be killed by their abuser if that person has access to a firearm.

I am the only candidate in this race with a track record on reducing gun violence. In the Minnesota Senate, I wrote and passed a bill to keep guns out of the hands of domestic abusers. I’ll bring the same common-sense approach to federal gun access reforms.

We can no longer ignore the need to take action. Once elected, I am committed to bringing the voices and experiences of southern Minnesota with me to Washington.

Vicki Jensen

Owatonna