Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement on the assault weapon used in the terrorist attack in Orlando:

“The Orlando gunman used a military-style assault weapon, similar to an AR-15. This type of weapon has become the weapon of choice for gunmen in mass shootings, including those in San Bernardino, Newtown and Aurora.

“This is not a weapon needed for hunting or self-defense. It is a weapon of war that can kill large numbers of people in close quarters. 

“If Congress had approved the Assault Weapons Ban of 2013, the manufacture of these weapons would have been prohibited, and I believe the Orlando gunman would have been prevented from buying the Sig Sauer MCX. While it’s true that an assault-weapons ban would not stop every attack or shooting, it’s clear that a weapon of war that can kill 49 people and wound so many others does not belong on our streets.

“In light of the worst mass shooting in U.S. history, I believe we have an obligation to revisit this issue. I am considering reintroducing the bill and will be speaking with my colleagues about how best to proceed. We cannot continue to do nothing.”