WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump told reporters that the White House would “be talking about gun laws as time goes by,” amid renewed calls for lawmakers to take action
The president and First Lady Melania Trump were about to board a helicopter for San Juan, Puerto Rico, where they were to visit following the devastating damage from Hurricane Maria.
“What happened in Las Vegas is in many ways a miracle,” Trump said. “The police department has done such an incredible job. I do have to say how quickly the police department was able to get in was very much a miracle. They have done an amazing job.”
At least 59 people were killed and more than 500 were injured when a gunman on the 32nd floor of the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas opened fire on a country music festival below. The assailant, Stephen Paddock, 64, killed himself before authorities reached his room. Police found almost two dozen firearms in his room.
Trump did not offer any indication that the administration was looking into specific steps. In fact, his former chief strategist, Steve Bannon, warned that action toward gun control could jeopardize Trump’s base of support. Asked by Axios what would happen if Trump moved to the left on gun legislation given the tragedy, Bannon texted, “Impossible: will be the end of everything.”