The students who survived the St. Valentine's Day massacre at a high school in Parkland, Fla. last week could have a major impact on this Fall's midterm elections for Congress.

Seventeen people were killed when a 19-year-old former student who should not have had a gun got one and went on a shooting spree. This is not the first school shooting but it appears to be a turning point as students all across the country are demanding an end to gun violence.

Students walked out of classes in at least four states and in The District of Columbia today in support of the victims of the Stoneman Douglas School shooting. President Trump has convened a "listening session" with students, parents, and teachers on the subject of mass shootings.

I think this time change is imminent.

Democrats who have lacked a cohesiveness and a message have been handed one and could use it to wrestle control of the House and Senate from Republicans this fall. Republicans, seen as the lapdogs of the NRA have in the past dug in the heels and resisted change. They no longer have that option.

The televised images of students marching for their very survival are powerful. The whole world is watching. And that includes anxious voters who will participate in the midterm elections.

Editor's Note: Barry Richard is the afternoon host on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from Noon-3 p.m. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.

 

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