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President Barack Obama called the shootings an "act of terror" as at least 50 people were killed and 53 more wounded in the what is now the deadliest mass shooting in American history.
“I'm aching for the victims, their loved ones, and the people of Orlando, and I pray that all those injured have a quick and full recovery," said U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.). "I know the pain and sadness that has brought too many communities – Newtown, Oregon, Aurora, San Bernardino, and now Orlando – to their knees, and I can only hope that America's leaders will do something to prevent another community from being added to the list.
"This phenomenon of near constant mass shootings happens only in America – nowhere else. Congress has become complicit in these murders by its total, unconscionable deafening silence. This doesn't have to happen, but this epidemic will continue without end if Congress continues to sit on its hands and do nothing – again."
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy announced that – in accordance with a proclamation from Obama – U.S. and state flags in Connecticut will fly at half-staff beginning immediately until sunset on June 16 to honor the victims.
“As we learn more in shock and horror about the deadliest mass shooting in our history, my heart breaks for the families of loved ones lost or injured – and for our nation, continuing to suffer from this unspeakable epidemic of gun violence," said U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). "The Senate’s inaction on commonsense gun violence prevention makes it complicit in this public health crisis. Prayers and platitudes are insufficient. The American public is beseeching us to act on commonsense, sensible gun violence prevention measures, and we must heed that call.”
U.S. Rep. Elizabeth Esty (D-5th District) decried "yet another act of brutal gun violence in our country. We are heartsick for the victims and for their loved ones, and we pray for a quick recovery for all those who have been injured."
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the law enforcement officers and first responders in Orlando, whose courageous actions ended this act of terrorism and may have saved dozens of lives. ...
“We do not yet know what motivated this horrific act of terrorism. But the fact that it targeted a mainstay of Florida’s LGBT community as communities throughout our nation gather to celebrate LGBT Pride Month only adds to our immense grief.
“Let us always remember that hatred or violence targeting any community – whether based on religion, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or anything else – is a betrayal of our values as Americans. Such actions are as wrong today as they were yesterday, and we must not forget that.
“We must stand united as Americans, as human beings, in support of all those affected by today’s horrific attack. And we must stand united in opposition to hatred and terrorism whenever and wherever they occur.”
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