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Carolyn McCarthy, gun control crusader and former congresswoman, dies at 81 | CNN Politics

Carolyn McCarthy, a former U.S. Representative from New York, passed away on June 26, 2025, at the age of 83. McCarthy was widely recognized for her relentless advocacy for gun control, a cause she championed after a tragic event that deeply affected her family. Her death marks the end of an era for gun control activism, as she was one of the most prominent figures in the movement for over two decades.

McCarthy's journey into politics and her subsequent dedication to gun control legislation began in 1993 when her husband, Dennis McCarthy, was killed, and her son, Kevin McCarthy, was severely injured in a mass shooting on the Long Island Rail Road. The shooter, Colin Ferguson, opened fire on a crowded train, killing six people and wounding 19 others. This horrific event propelled McCarthy into the public eye and ignited her passion for advocating for stricter gun laws.

In the aftermath of the shooting, McCarthy, who had no prior political experience, decided to run for Congress. Her campaign focused heavily on gun control, resonating with many voters who were also concerned about gun violence. In 1996, she won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York's 4th congressional district. Her victory was seen as a testament to the power of grassroots movements and the impact of personal tragedy on political action.

During her time in Congress, McCarthy became a leading voice for gun control. She was instrumental in the passage of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, which mandated background checks for handgun purchases. McCarthy also played a key role in the enactment of the Federal Assault Weapons Ban of 1994, which prohibited the manufacture, transfer, and possession of certain semi-automatic firearms. Although the ban expired in 2004 and was not renewed, McCarthy continued to push for its reinstatement throughout her career.

McCarthy's legislative efforts extended beyond gun control. She was a strong advocate for healthcare reform, particularly in the areas of mental health and breast cancer research. McCarthy herself was a breast cancer survivor, having been diagnosed in 1998. Her personal experience with the disease fueled her commitment to improving healthcare access and funding for research. She was a vocal supporter of the Affordable Care Act and worked tirelessly to ensure that it included provisions for mental health parity and expanded coverage for preventive services.

In addition to her work on healthcare, McCarthy was a dedicated public servant who focused on improving the lives of her constituents. She was known for her accessibility and willingness to listen to the concerns of her community. McCarthy often held town hall meetings and participated in local events, earning her a reputation as a compassionate and engaged representative.

Despite her many accomplishments, McCarthy faced significant challenges during her time in Congress. She encountered fierce opposition from pro-gun groups and faced numerous threats and harassment. However, she remained steadfast in her convictions and continued to advocate for gun control, even when it was politically unpopular. McCarthy's resilience and determination were hallmarks of her career and inspired many others to join the fight against gun violence.

After serving nine terms in Congress, McCarthy announced her retirement in 2014. She cited her desire to spend more time with her family, particularly her son Kevin, who continued to struggle with the long-term effects of his injuries from the 1993 shooting. McCarthy's retirement marked the end of an era, but her legacy lived on through the many organizations and individuals she inspired.

Following her retirement, McCarthy remained active in the gun control movement. She continued to speak at rallies and events, urging lawmakers to take action to prevent future tragedies. McCarthy also worked with various advocacy groups, including the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence and Everytown for Gun Safety, to promote sensible gun laws and raise awareness about the impact of gun violence on communities.

McCarthy's death has been met with an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, friends, and admirers. Many have praised her courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to her causes. President Joe Biden, who worked with McCarthy on gun control legislation during his time in the Senate, released a statement expressing his deep sadness at her passing and highlighting her significant contributions to the fight against gun violence.

In her later years, McCarthy continued to be a source of inspiration for those working to end gun violence. She often spoke about the importance of perseverance and the need for continued advocacy, even in the face of setbacks. McCarthy's life and career serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that one person can have when driven by a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to making a difference.

As the nation mourns the loss of Carolyn McCarthy, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the gun control movement. Her tireless efforts and personal sacrifices have left an indelible mark on the fight against gun violence, and her memory will continue to inspire future generations of activists and lawmakers. McCarthy's passing is a profound loss, but her work and the lives she touched will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

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