The first substantive vote in the gun rights debate this week. It is on the Toomey-Manchin amendment to expand background checks.

I will vote “no.” This amendment would impose a background check system that is overly broad, vague, and ultimately ineffective. And despite the assurances of its supporters, it could easily evolve into a national gun registry that would be an intrusion into the privacy and lives of the American people.

On Thursday, I voted “yes” to start the debate because this is a debate Republicans should want. This is a debate we can win. [Read more…]