Lugar, Voinovich explain votes against Thune Amendment

Sens. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.) and George Voinovich (R-Ohio) were the only two Republicans to oppose the controversial Thune Amendment earlier today. (Falling two votes short of passage, the amendment would have forced states that have concealed weapon permits to honor permits granted by other states.)

In response to requests from The Hill, both Senators cited concern over local control as their reason for opposing the amendment.

“Senator Lugar supports the position held by law enforcement organizations that state and local officials should be afforded the ability to determine proper concealed-carry gun laws and regulations that protect the safety of their communities,” said spokesman Andy Fisher. “This is consistent with his views since he was mayor of Indianapolis.”

Voinovich’s office provided a similar response.

“Sen. Voinovich believes concealed carry is a state issue and states are already working among themselves to expand recognition of concealed carry permit holders,” said a Garrette Silver, a spokesman for Voinovich. “For example, Ohio has had a conceal carry law since 2004 and has reciprocity with up to 25 other states. Because conceal carry rights are already protected at the state level, Sen. Voinovich sees no need for federal legislation at this time.”