People For the American Way today applauded the confirmation of Vivek Murthy as U.S. Surgeon General after months of delay and obstruction instigated by the National Rifle Association.

“Today’s vote is a victory for public health and for common sense,” said Marge Baker, Executive Vice President of People For the American Way. “And it’s a big loss for the NRA. Dr. Murthy is unquestionably well qualified to serve in this position. For far too long, Republicans in the Senate have obstructed this confirmation for no credible reason beyond the pressure brought to bear by pro-gun extremists. The attacks on Dr. Murthy were as flimsy as they were absurd, and today the Senate rejected them decisively.”

The NRA had strenuously opposed Murthy due to his belief that guns, which are designed to kill people, might pose a public health risk.

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