Trump Responds to FSU Shooting: A Call for Second Amendment Protection
In the wake of a tragic mass shooting at Florida State University (FSU) on April 17, 2025, President Donald Trump promptly addressed the nation, underlining his commitment to the Second Amendment. The incident, in which two people were killed and six others injured, has reignited intense discussions regarding gun control and safety protocols on college campuses.
The Incident Details
The shooting was perpetrated by 20-year-old FSU student Phoenix Ikner, who opened fire outside the student union around noon, causing panic across the campus. Ikner, after moving through various locations on campus and firing indiscriminately, was ultimately confronted by law enforcement officers. After failing to comply with commands, he was shot and apprehended by authorities.
Trump’s Response
Following the incident, President Trump characterized the event as a “shame” and “a horrible thing,” while emphasizing his unwavering support for the rights enshrined in the Second Amendment. He stated, “Look, I’m a big advocate of the Second Amendment. I have been from the beginning. I protected it, and these things are terrible, but the gun doesn’t do the shooting. The people do.”
Trump further declared, “I have an obligation to protect the Second Amendment. I ran on the Second Amendment… and I will always protect the Second Amendment.” His remarks highlighted that the shooting would not lead him to advocate for any new gun restrictions.
Context of Gun Control Debate
The FSU shooting coincided with ongoing debates about campus carry laws in Florida. Just weeks before the attack, a proposal (SB 814) to allow concealed firearms on college campuses had been narrowly voted down in the Florida Senate Criminal Justice Committee, indicating significant divisions within the Republican Party on this issue. Notably, Republican Senator Ileana Garcia joined Democrats in opposing the bill, which fell short in a tight 4-3 vote.
In defense of her vote against the bill, Senator Garcia remarked, “I have zero regret… This decision wasn’t about partisan politics; it was rooted in common sense. The incident at FSU was tragic, but the real issue lies not with the firearm itself, but with the factors that led to it.”
Current Gun Control Laws in Florida
- Prohibition on concealed carry and open carry of firearms on college campuses.
- Minimum age of 21 for purchasing rifles and handguns.
- Mandatory three-day waiting period for most firearm purchases.
- “Red flag” laws that permit law enforcement to temporarily seize firearms from individuals deemed a threat to themselves or others.
Despite these existing laws, the FSU shooter was able to secure firearms and carry out the attack, raising critical questions about the effectiveness of these measures.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Debates
As investigations into the incident continue, discussions surrounding campus safety and gun control are expected to intensify both in Florida and nationwide. The recent tragedy may prompt further examination of current laws and the balance between gun rights and public safety.
About the Author
José Niño, a freelance writer based in Austin, Texas, covers relevant political and social issues. Connect with him through Facebook and X/Twitter, or subscribe to his newsletter “José Niño Unfiltered” on Substack.
