Republican Congressman Thomas Massie has ignited controversy after sharing a Christmas-themed family photo where he and his relatives are seen holding firearms. The image, posted just days after a tragic school shooting in Michigan that left four students dead, has drawn widespread criticism.
The Kentucky representative shared the photo on social media with the caption "Merry Christmas!" The picture shows Massie, his wife, and other family members smiling while holding an array of rifles in front of their decorated Christmas tree.
Timing Sparks Outrage
The post came at a particularly sensitive time, following the November 30 Oxford High School shooting in Michigan. Many social media users condemned the congressman's decision to flaunt firearms so soon after the tragedy.
"Selling guns is more important than children's lives to this guy," one Twitter user wrote in response to the photo.
Massie's Defense
Massie, a staunch Second Amendment advocate, defended his post, stating it was meant to showcase his family's tradition. "We celebrate our rights, including the right to bear arms," he later commented.
The congressman has consistently opposed gun control measures throughout his political career. In 2019, he earned an A+ rating from the National Rifle Association (NRA).
Political Reactions
Democratic representatives were quick to condemn the post. Michigan Congresswoman Debbie Dingell called it "insensitive" and "tone-deaf" given recent events in her state.
Meanwhile, some Republican colleagues privately expressed discomfort with the timing of Massie's post, though few spoke publicly against it.
The controversy comes as gun control debates are expected to resurface in Congress following the Michigan shooting. However, with Massie and other pro-gun legislators maintaining their positions, significant policy changes appear unlikely in the near future.
