Following the recent election of Donald Trump as President-elect, Second Amendment supporters anticipate renewed backing in the White House, marking a significant shift after what they describe as four years of restrictive gun policies under President Joe Biden. Pro-Second Amendment groups, including the Gun Owners of America (GOA) and the National Rifle Association (NRA), express optimism about working with Trump, despite opposition from gun control advocates such as Everytown for Gun Safety.
GOA’s Director of Federal Affairs, Aidan Johnston, told Fox News Digital that Trump’s election signifies a victory for Second Amendment advocates. “The Second Amendment was on the ballot, and the Second Amendment won,” Johnston said. He noted that Trump’s return to office will give gun owners a strong advocate in the White House, promising an ally in the ongoing effort to protect gun rights.
Similarly, Randy Kozuch, Executive Director of the NRA Institute for Legislative Action, remarked that Trump’s presidency is likely to see the enactment of pro-Second Amendment policies. He highlighted that Trump’s promises on the campaign trail included advocating for national concealed carry reciprocity, a policy that would allow concealed carry permits to be recognized across all 50 states. “The American people have clearly given the president a mandate,” Johnston continued, urging Congress to take action in support of this agenda.
However, gun control organizations are preparing for a renewed battle. Everytown for Gun Safety released a statement following Trump’s election, stating, “Make no mistake: Trump’s extremist agenda is a danger for our nation.” The group underscored its commitment to continue efforts for gun safety, especially considering statistics that highlight gun violence as a leading cause of death among children. Meanwhile, the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the challenges posed by Trump’s upcoming term but emphasizing its resilience in defending gun control measures.
During his recent speech at an NRA event, Trump reiterated his intent to roll back what he describes as anti-Second Amendment policies enacted during the Biden administration, including the Biden-Harris administration’s strict approach to regulating “rogue” gun dealers and homemade firearm kits. Advocates like Johnston criticize such measures as an overreach, which they claim disproportionately impacts legal gun owners and businesses.
With Trump’s inauguration approaching, both sides of the gun debate are preparing for what promises to be a contentious term marked by a revived push for and against gun control legislation.
