Blood Money

This post was contributed by David Benowitz

In the wake of the mass murder of twenty first graders and six of their teachers at Sandy Hook Elementary School, the fifth incident since 2011, it’s time to excise the cancer that is the National Rifle Association (NRA). The NRA uses its money and influence to control primarily Republican members of Congress [83% of its contributions in the 2011-2012 federal election cycle went to Republicans]. Americans For Tax Reform head Grover Norquist has for years used a no-tax pledge as a litmus test for Republican support of a largely unworthy cause. Although his goal is ridiculous in a forward-thinking society, his method has been effective.

It’s time, after four mass murders, to end the NRA as a force in American politics. Opposition to the NRA and rejection of its money or the funds provided by the PACs it controls must become a litmus test for public service. Those who support the NRA or take its money have blood on their hands. Those who accept this money need to be held accountable at the ballot box. Here’s a list, courtesy of Opensecrets.org., of members of Congress who took this blood money during the 2011-2012 election cycle.