Same old tune in US gun control debate

IT has become a ritual of sorts. It starts with a horrific mass shooting. A lone gunman opens fire at innocent Americans, murdering schoolchildren, churchgoers, or just some people having fun.

Horrific images of the dead, the injured and those running for cover from the gunshots fill the television screens. The American people are shaken and outraged, and grieve for the victims and wonder who would commit such a horrendous crime, as law enforcement personnel try to provide answers.

And then the focus starts to shift to Washington, to the television talking heads, the pundits and the politicians who once again play their expected roles in the horror movie.

The American president and members of Congress offer condolences for the dead and their families and pray for the recovery of those injured. There is the required moment of silence and flags on fe…