Top Georgia candidates took a break this evening as they awaited election results to express their sadness about today’s mass shooting at an elementary school in Uvalde, Texas.

Gov. Brian Kemp said he was “heartbroken” about the incident, which left at least 14 children and a teacher dead.

“We are lifting up the families of these victims, the first responders on the scene, and the entire community in prayer,” the Republican said.

Earlier this year, Kemp signed a bill that expanded gun rights by allowing Georgians to carry concealed handguns without first getting a license from the state.

Meanwhile, Congresswoman Lucy McBath, a longtime gun control advocate who got involved in politics after losing her son in a shooting, said the country needs to change course on gun laws.

“We must do something to keep guns out of the hands of those who should not have them,” the Democrat tweeted. “It’s imperative we act, and act now. I will never rest until we do.”

Similarly, McBath’s primary opponent, U.S. Rep. Carolyn Bourdeaux, called for new gun control policies.

Many Republican candidates staked out similar positions to Kemp’s, signaling that their thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families without calling for changing course on gun control.

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In this file photo from October 2024, Atlanta Braves outfielder Jorge Soler and teammates react after losing to the San Diego Padres 5-4 in San Diego. The Braves and Soler, who now plays for the Los Angeles Angels, face a lawsuit by a fan injured at a 2021 World Series game at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason.Getz@ajc.com