WLOS - Connect to Congress: Sen. Thom Tillis on Orlando, gun control and presidential politics

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By Bryan Overstreet

Senator Thom Tillis, (R-NC), says the mood at the Capitol has been sad following such a massive loss of life in Orlando. During a Connect to Congress interview in Washington, Senator Tillis weighed in on the debate over gun control.

Senator Tillis says there should be a discussion about guns, but law abiding citizens who have peaceful intensions who want to own a gun should not be punished. Senator Tillis says people who want to pivot the conversation from terrorism are doing a "great disservice to the mounting threats across this nation."

"Make no mistake about it. This was an act of terror that would have occurred if it not were a gun, but a bomb or some other means. Somebody who has the mantality to kill 49 people is going to find a way to kill people. That is a threat we need to recognize and continue to be vigilant." said Sen. Tillis.

News 13 also asked Senator Tillis about speculation in Washington that Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) is being considered as a possible running mate for presidential candidate Donald Trump. Senator Burr's name was mentioned during a conservative radio talk show this week as being on the "short list" for Trump's consideration. Senator Burr is chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee.

"It makes sense given his reputation here. His time in the congress both in the house and now in the senate, it makes perfect sense that he would be vetted. That means people who are looking at VP's are looking at top caliber people and I am glad Senator Burr is one of them." said Sen. Tillis.

The possiblity of Senator Burr being considered as a candidate for Vice President could shake up North Carolina's senate race. Senator Burr is seeking reelection in November. The Burr campaign has not commented about a possible run on the Trump ticket.

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