Loebsack: It’s ‘past time for action’ after mass shooting

Iowa's lone Democrat in Congress said Monday 'it is past time we act” in the aftermath of the Las Vegas mass shooting.

In a statement, Rep. Dave Loebsack, D-Iowa, offered condolences to the victims, but added that isn't sufficient.

'We must take time to honor the victims, but words alone are not enough. It is past time we act to keep our families and communities safe. We must come together and work toward ending these heinous acts,” he said.

Loebsack didn't expand on what that might be. However, his comments came as there were renewed calls in Congress for stricter gun control measures. They also were a contrast from Republicans in the state who offered condolences but steered clear of anything controversial.

'My prayers are with all of the victims in Las Vegas, and their loved ones affected by this senseless act of violence,” Sen. Joni Ernst, R-Iowa, said in a statement. 'As we learn more about what happened in the days ahead, let us come together and show our gratitude to our first responders and the other unsung heroes who put their lives on the line for others.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, also offered prayers.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said the shooting was horrific and ordered flags flown at half staff. But the Republican also told reporters it wasn't the right time to talk about policy changes.

'Right now I think we just need to keep the families and the victims in our thoughts and prayers and really focus on the people,” she said.

Rod Boshart of The Gazette's Des Moines Bureau contributed.