Congress Loses Its Most Senior Senator, Replaces DeMint, Debates Sandy Aid

A number of Senators and Representatives are lobbying for new gun control measures since the Newtown shooting last Friday. Even Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Democrat from the decidedly pro-gun state of Nevada, said yesterday, on the Senate floor, “In the coming days and weeks, we’ll engage in a meaningful conversation and thoughtful debate about how to change laws and culture that allow this violence to continue to grow.”
He continued, “We have no greater responsibility than keeping our most vulnerable and most precious resource – our children – safe. And every idea should be on the table as we discuss how best to do just that.”
Takeaway Washington correspondent Todd Zwillich  has the latest from Congress, where the Senate will soon mark a milestone. South Carolina  Governor Nikki Haley appointed Congressman Jim Scott to replace Senator Jim DeMint, who is stepping down to lead the Heritage Foundation. Scott will be will be the only African-American currently serving in the Senate, and the first black Senator from the South since Reconstruction.
The Senate lost its most senior member yesterday, as Daniel Inouye, the Senior Senator from Hawaii, passed away at 88. Here’s his official Medal of Honor citation:

Second Lieutenant Daniel K. Inouye distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action on 21 April 1945, in the vicinity of San Terenzo, Italy. While attacking a defended ridge guarding an important road junction, Second Lieutenant Inouye skillfully directed his platoon through a hail of automatic weapon and small arms fire, in a swift enveloping movement that resulted in the capture of an artillery and mortar post and brought his men to within 40 yards of the hostile force. Emplaced in bunkers and rock formations, the enemy halted the advance with crossfire from three machine guns. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Second Lieutenant Inouye crawled up the treacherous slope to within five yards of the nearest machine gun and hurled two grenades, destroying the emplacement. Before the enemy could retaliate, he stood up and neutralized a second machine gun nest. Although wounded by a sniper’s bullet, he continued to engage other hostile positions at close range until an exploding grenade shattered his right arm. Despite the intense pain, he refused evacuation and continued to direct his platoon until enemy resistance was broken and his men were again deployed in defensive positions. In the attack, 25 enemy soldiers were killed and eight others captured. By his gallant, aggressive tactics and by his indomitable leadership, Second Lieutenant Inouye enabled his platoon to advance through formidable resistance, and was instrumental in the capture of the ridge. Second Lieutenant Inouye’s extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty are in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit on him, his unit, and the United States Army.