President Trump called for unity and prayer in the aftermath of "an act of pure evil," somberly addressing the nation from the White House on Monday hours after the worst mass shooting in modern U.S. history. At least in the initial stages of investigation and mourning, the White House was eager to steer clear of policy discussions, resisting calls from Democratic leaders in Congress to address gun control. Republicans, who control Congress and the White House, generally oppose gun restrictions. "What has happened in Orlando is just the beginning," Trump tweeted then. By contrast, after the school shooting at Newtown, Trump initially praised the response by Obama.

Source: Los Angeles Times October 02, 2017 22:51 UTC