Mark Barden, who became a national advocate for gun control after losing his son in the Sandy Hook massacre, is considering a run for Congress.
Barden, whose son Daniel was killed in the Newtown shooting, is the co-founder of Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit organization focused on preventing gun violence and advocating for gun control at the state and national levels. Now he is considering a run for Connecticut's Fifth District seat as a Democrat.
Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, a Democrat, currently holds the seat. On April 2, Esty announced she would not run for re-election amid criticism and pressure to resign after she admitted to keeping her former chief of staff on after he was accused of threatening another female staff member.
Barden said he had not made a final decision. He released the following statement to NBC Connecticut:
“At this time, I am giving careful thought and consideration to running for Connecticut's 5th District seat. This is not an easy decision and I have consulted colleagues and partners who can assist me in making an informed decision - while also keeping in mind the impact this would potentially have on my family. I don't have timing on when a decision will be made, but I will make an announcement once I do.”
Dr. William Petit Jr., the lone survivor of a deadly 2007 home invasion in Connecticut and a current Republican state representative, is considering seeking the GOP nomination for the seat.
