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Crime

Parent of Parkland shooting victim interrupts Biden gun-control speech

Manuel Oliver says gun-control legislation doesn’t do enough

July 11, 2022 2:58pm

Updated: July 11, 2022 7:17pm

President Biden gave remarks Monday on the South Lawn about the recent passing of bipartisan gun legislation. 

“Today is many things. It’s proof that despite the naysayers, we can make meaningful progress on dealing with gun violence,” he said. 

Manuel Oliver, who lost his son Joaquin in the 2018 Parkland shooting, at that point stood up and said, “We have to do more than that.”

“I’ve been trying to tell you this for years.” Biden exclaimed over Oliver’s remarks. “Sit down, you’ll hear what I have to say.”

As security approached Oliver, Biden told them to “let him talk,” but continued on with his address saying: “Make no mistake about it: This legislation is real progress, but more has to be done.” 

With some reluctance, Oliver was eventually escorted out of the event by security. 

Oliver made an earlier interview appearance on CNN and refused to give the president credit there either. 

“For me, it's not only not enough what we’re passing,” said Oliver. “I really wish there was more in this package of bills and I will do whatever I can to get more.”