Focus on gun control, Obama cabinet picks_美文

Focus on gun control, Obama cabinet picks

On Monday, US President Barack Obama will attempt to rally public support for gun control measures formulated after the December mass-shooting at a Connecticut elementary school. Also this week: further Senate consideration of Obama’s Cabinet picks for his second term.

President Obama travels to Minneapolis, Minnesota, to promote proposals for reducing gun violence. The city’s police chief was among law enforcement officials consulted by Vice President Joe Biden in formulating the recommendations.

Minneapolis saw a deadly shooting spree last year, and Mayor R.T. Rybak has become a leading voice for gun control. "In a wonderful neighborhood, in a wonderful business we have had a horrible tragedy," he said.

Strong and sustained public support for firearms legislation is seen as critical to ensure congressional action. A Senate hearing last week illuminated battle lines between gun-control proponents like former Representative Gabrielle Giffords, a victim of gun violence and opponents, like the National Rifle Association’s Wayne LaPierre.

In addition to gun control, the Senate is also mulling President Obama’s pick for defense secretary, Chuck Hagel.

The former Republican senator appeared to stumble at his confirmation hearing last week, at one point mischaracterizing the administration’s policy on Iran’s nuclear ambitions. “I support the president's strong position on containment," he said.