Jimmy Kimmel didn’t spend too much time discussing the events in Las Vegas and his calls for gun control on Tuesday’s show, but he did open the show with a quick response to people he calls “nuts” that are saying that right now is too soon to have a discussion about tougher gun laws and a change in policy for the nation. While a decision on gun ownership and where it does from here is an issue that doesn’t have a black and white solution, the need for discussion is important and the host seems to be focused on making that his next major issue.
While sending his best to the victims and families in Las Vegas, Kimmel quickly changes tone to address those critics by saying that “the first amendment is at least as important as the second amendment“:
“I do want to say something to these nuts who spent most of the day today on television and online attacking those of us who think we need to do something about the fact that 59 innocent people were killed. They say it’s inappropriate to be talking about it because it’s too soon. Well, maybe it is too soon for you because deep down inside you know, in your heart, you know you bear some responsibility for the fact that almost anyone can get any weapon they want, and now you want to cover yourself until the storm of outrage passes and you can go back to your dirty business as usual.”
He concludes his quick comment saying “shame on you” on the other side of the debate for quickly going to the same talking points that we’ve seen in the past. And while it is short, it still acts as a strong addendum to his tearful commentary from Monday. Whether Kimmel will continue criticizing the NRA and politicians who have voted against gun control measures still remains to be seen, but he has certainly proven that he could be the leading voice in late night on the issue. According to Patton Oswalt, the host might already be facing the trouble that typically accompanies speaking out:
Jimmy Kimmel’s asked for compassion (ACA) and action (gun control) and has had to beef up security ‘cuz of death threats from Trumpers.
— Patton Oswalt (@pattonoswalt) October 3, 2017
(Via Jimmy Kimmel Live)