In a recent press conference at Mar-a-Lago, former President Donald Trump reiterated his unwavering support for the Second Amendment, despite being the victim of a would-be assassin who used an AR-15. According to a report by The Reload‘s Stephen Gutowski, Trump was asked if the incident had altered his view on AR rifles, to which he firmly responded, “It didn’t.”
During the lengthy exchange, Trump also took aim at Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris, accusing her of wanting to confiscate firearms from Americans.
“She wants to take away everyone’s gun,” Trump stated, arguing that people need guns for protection.
While the Harris campaign did not provide immediate comment, the article noted Harris isn’t advocating for confiscation of all firearms. Previously, she had supported a mandatory buyback of so-called assault weapons, which includes the AR-15, but her campaign later retreated from that stance. According to The Reload, a Harris spokesperson clarified in July that she would no longer push for a mandatory buyback if elected president, though she continues to support an assault weapons ban, universal background checks and red flag laws. Most gun owners and organizations also simply do not believe what Harris or her campaign says regarding gun confiscations, wisely noting her record of animus against firearms throughout her political career. While only a handful of mainstream media outlets have outlined her anti-gun record, anti-gun groups have been vocal about their joy at the possibility of a Harris Administration in the White House.
Trump further emphasized his commitment to gun rights, citing his track record and strong ties with the National Rifle Association (NRA). He also used Chicago’s crime rate as an example to argue that strict gun laws are ineffective.
“Our Second Amendment is a very important right, and it has to be protected,” Trump declared, though he stopped short of outlining any new policy proposals during the press conference.
Trump’s remarks come at a critical juncture in the 2024 campaign as he seeks to re-engage with gun rights advocates amidst a tightening race.
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