Key figure in bipartisan gun reform negotiations says red flag bill has best chance in the Senate

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), who is engaged in discussions with GOP senators about gun policy, says a red flag bill like one enacted in 2018 in Florida has the best chance of passing the 50-50 Senate.

"We're broadly trying to figure out what has 60 votes," Murphy said Sunday on CNN. "But I think the template for Florida is the right one, which is, do some significant mental health investment, some school safety money, and some modest, but impactful changes in gun laws. That's the kind of package we're putting together right now. That's the kind of package I think can pass the Senate."

Murphy was asked if something could pass by the end of this week.

"I don't know," he said. "But as late as last night, we were engaged in conversations about trying to put a package together, because I think Republicans realize how scared parents and kids are across this country.

"I think they realize that the answer this time cannot be nothing, that it's frankly a test of democracy, it's a test of the federal government as to whether we can deliver at a moment of just fierce anxiety amongst the American public. So we're closer than ever before. Let's see if we land it." 

In addition to Murphy, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) are negotiating the details of a bipartisan agreement that could also include reforming background checks for gun purchases in addition to a federal red flag law.