Durbin Meets with ATF Director Nominee David Chipman

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today met virtually with David Chipman, nominee to be the Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). During their meeting, Durbin and Chipman discussed efforts to address the gun violence epidemic and protect public safety, including the President’s proposal to stop the proliferation of ghost guns, combatting illicit firearm trafficking, and tracing crime guns.  They additionally discussed Chipman’s extensive experience working for the law enforcement bureau that he has been nominated to lead.

“When it comes to the sickening gun violence in our streets, we have a choice: give up or stand up,” Durbin said.  “David Chipman, the President’s nominee to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, is a well-qualified and experienced law enforcement professional who will stand up and take meaningful action to enforce the law and save lives.  Gun violence is a public health crisis that must be addressed with an all-hands-on-deck approach, and I’m confident that he will be a leader in efforts to make our communities safer.”

Chipman is currently a Senior Policy Advisor for Giffords, a position he has held since May 2016.  Earlier in his career, Chipman spent nearly 25 years with ATF, the bulk of it as a Special Agent in various field offices.

ATF hasn’t had a Senate-confirmed Director since 2015.  Last month’s announcement of President Biden’s intent to nominate Chipman was coupled with a series of executive actions aimed at reducing gun violence.

A photo of today’s virtual meeting is available here.

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