Coburn says he won’t filibuster gun bills, wants an open debate

Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.) said Wednesday that he would not filibuster gun legislation because he believes there should be an open debate about the Second Amendment and gun control.

“Some have asked whether I will try to block or filibuster this debate because of my support of the Second Amendment,” Coburn said in a statement after President Obama laid out proposals for reducing gun violence. “My goal is the opposite. I believe Congress has a responsibility to review all of our laws and make adjustments as necessary in a transparent, open and deliberative manner.”

Coburn, who has been nicknamed “Dr. No” because of his obstructionism in the Senate, said while he doesn’t agree with all of Obama’s suggestions, he does believe members of Congress should be forced to cast tough votes. 

Also on Wednesday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said he would allow votes on legislation addressing gun violence, but he would not offer specifics. Reid has said he would prefer not to hold a vote on reinstating the assault weapons ban because he believes it wouldn’t pass the House. But the tough vote also could threaten the Democrats' majority in the Senate. Coburn dared Reid to hold the vote and have members defend their positions.

“I would welcome the opportunity to debate these issues on the floor of the Senate and would encourage Majority Leader Reid to schedule a full and open debate,” Coburn said. “Members of Congress and the American people have a right to know where members stand on these key policies. If members can’t defend their positions, they don’t deserve to be here.”

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