U.S. Rep. Adam Smith (09-WA) told seniors at Bellevue High School that guns are a problem in the United States when he spoke to them Tuesday, Jan. 29 in an assembly.

“There are far, far too many guns in this country,” Smith told the seniors, referencing recent actions made by Vice President Biden in regard to gun legislation. “We need stricter regulations to ensure those don’t get in to the hands of the wrong people.”

Smith, who is in his ninth term in Congress, serves as Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee.

Smith added that gun control is not the only problem, citing the culture of violence and a lack in support for mental health care in the United States as other major contributors.

“Gun control is not going to stop gun violence – but if it’s sensibly done, it can make a difference.”

The assembly was organized by teacher William D. Linser as a way for the young voters to get to know the congressman and his policies better. Linser solicited questions from students in advance of the assembly; students and were then give the chance to ask Smith their questions in front of their peers.

In addition to gun control, topics covered included what the legalization of marijuana means in Washington and Smith’s views on the current state of our economy.

On the passing of the marijuana initiative – I-502 – Smith said the state is working with the federal government to find an agreement in which they can respect Washington law.

“Ideally, that would be passing [legislation] that gives state laws priority,” Smith said. At this time, federal law trumps state, in regard to this initiative.

Stepping away from the political side of things, the Washington native also took a moment to address the rumors that the NBA may be returning to Seattle.

Regarding the Sonics: “Don’t count your chickens before the eggs have hatched,” Smith said.