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Tennessee Congressman Andy Ogles wants to defund the federal department that investigates gun crimes

Blaise GaineyWPLN News
Congressman Andy Ogles says the ATF is no longer working to help Americans. 
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Nashville Congressman Andy Ogles wants to defund the government agency that investigates federal offenses involving the unlawful use of firearms.

Rep. Ogles offered the amendment to the federal budget for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. He says the ATF is no longer working to help Americans. 

“They’ve been weaponized, like other agencies, against American people,” Ogles said. “They’ve been regulating the gun industry by press release and fiat and not going through their proper channels of congressional approval process.”

In 2021, the ATF traced more than 15,000 firearms back to Tennessee. Nashville and Memphis account for more than half of those. 

ATF firearms traces are requested by law enforcement agencies that are investigating cases involving guns. 

Blaise Gainey, Political Reporter

Blaise Gainey is the youngest of three siblings, husband and father of two. He previously held the State Government Reporter position for WFSU News in Tallahassee. He is from Apopka, Fla., and graduated from The School of Journalism at the Florida A&M University. He previously worked for The Florida Channel and WTXL-TV. He is excited to move to another capital and report on state government. In his spare time, he enjoys watching sports, outdoor activities and enjoying family time.

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