House Democrats stage sit-in over gun control

WASHINGTON — House Democrats are staging a sit-down protest, seeking a vote on gun control measures following the Orlando nightclub shooting.

A group of Democrats led by Georgia Rep. John Lewis demanded a vote on gun control measures before sitting down and "occupying" the House floor Wednesday.

Members of the Massachusetts delegation participating in the sit-in Wednesday afternoon included Reps. Katherine Clark, Michael Capuano, Joe Kennedy, Richard Neal, James McGovern, Niki Tsongas, William Keating and Seth Moulton.

"We are resolved and committed to speaking out for victims, survivors, and families at home who deserve a vote. #NoMoreSilence," Clark tweeted.

Rep. John Larson of Connecticut says lawmakers are "calling for the simple dignity of a vote" in the House on measures to block gun purchases by some suspected terrorists.

Larson says, "Rise up Democrats, rise up Americans. We will occupy this chamber."

Minority Whip Steny Hoyer of Maryland says, "We will not be shut up. We will not be shut down."

Massachusetts Second District Rep. Jim McGovern tweeted that, "Americans deserve a Congress that will finally act to #StopGunViolence. We must #DisarmHate & protect our families."

Massachusetts' two Democratic U.S. senators - Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey - trekked to the House to join the protest.

The House was not in session when the Democrats held the demonstration. Republican leaders ordered C-SPAN cameras turned off.

Associated Press contributed reporting to this story

Cox Media Group