2013 has only seen a few calendar weeks, but the homicide rate is already adding to further calls for increased gun control. RedEye Chicago announced today that of the 26 murders already on the books, 22 have been related to gun violence.
Though Chicago has become the epitome of gun violence across the nation, the end appears to be nowhere in sight; perhaps even further out of reach. Nearly 85 percent of Chicago's homicides are from gunshots, with the other portion coming from stabbings.
The startling increase in gun crimes have corresponded with national narratives for an assault weapons ban. While the president rolled out his own federal enforcement initiatives earlier this week, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel has loudly pursued similar motions in the city of Chicago. On top of his renewed fight for stricter gun laws, Mayor Emanuel has also begun a push to disallow public money to be invested in gun manufacturers. This is an attempt to wash the city's hands clean from contributing to increases in gun sales.
As of yet, there has been no legislative action on curbing gun violence in Chicago or Washington DC. New efforts by gun control advocates have brought out fierce opposition by the National Rifle Association and staunch conservatives. New laws could be expected within the coming months.
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