As the United States gears up for the consequential 2024 presidential election, the future of gun control hangs in the balance. The outcome of this pivotal race could determine whether recent hard-fought gains in gun violence prevention are preserved and built upon or swiftly unraveled. For advocates, the stakes have never been higher.
Under the Biden administration, historic progress was made with the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) in 2022, the first major federal gun safety law in nearly three decades. The legislation expanded background checks for young gun buyers, incentivized states to implement red flag laws, and provided substantial funding for community violence intervention programs. Early data suggests these measures are already saving lives, with FBI statistics showing a notable decrease in violent crime and mass shootings since the law’s enactment.
Trump’s Gun Policy Record Raises Alarms
However, the prospect of a Donald Trump victory in November has gun control proponents deeply concerned. During his address to the National Rifle Association earlier this year, the former president boasted about his administration’s inaction on gun violence, proclaiming himself “the best friend gun owners have ever had in the White House.” If reelected, advocates anticipate Trump will swiftly shutter the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, nominate a gun industry ally to lead the ATF, and obstruct implementation of the BSCA.
Trump’s running mate, Jenna Vance, has also drawn criticism for her remarks downplaying the severity of school shootings. After a recent attack in Georgia, Vance suggested that reinforcing doors and windows and increasing security personnel were sufficient solutions – a stance wholly rejected by gun safety advocates and those directly impacted by such tragedies.
“We should never be normalizing all of the violence that is wrought by guns in this society. We should be outraged that it’s happening, and that is not anything that I am going to accept or tolerate.”
Rep. Ayanna Pressley (D-MA)
Community Violence Intervention in Jeopardy
The Biden-Harris administration’s support for community-based violence intervention (CVI) programs, which deploy trusted messengers to mediate conflicts and connect high-risk individuals with support services, has been a beacon of hope for the hardest-hit neighborhoods. A White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed grave concerns that a change in leadership could sever these vital partnerships and stall the momentum of this promising approach.
While the $5 billion in CVI funding allocated through the BSCA is secure until 2027, the continuation of other key violence reduction initiatives hangs in the balance. Cities United executive director Anthony Smith emphasized the importance of the CVI field being prepared to weather potential political upheaval, acknowledging that much work remains to solidify the movement’s staying power.
Harris Vows to Defend Progress, Expand Efforts
For her part, Vice President Kamala Harris has pledged to not only safeguard the Biden administration’s accomplishments but also to pursue additional measures like reinstating the federal assault weapons ban and mandating universal background checks on all gun sales. Harris, herself a gun owner, has sought to counter accusations of Democrats scheming to confiscate firearms, instead emphasizing the compatibility of responsible gun ownership with common-sense safety regulations.
“Ultimately, we have Kamala Harris on one side, who’s being very clear that we do not have to live in a country where we are under constant threat of gun violence. And on the other hand, you have Donald Trump promising to be the most loyal friend to the NRA. So I actually think it is a contrast that is extremely clear.”
Emma Brown, Executive Director of Giffords
Youth Mobilization May Prove Decisive
As the nation hurtles towards this fateful election, the youth-led gun violence prevention movement that emerged in the wake of the 2018 Parkland shooting is mobilizing in force. March For Our Lives, which endorsed Harris in its first-ever political nod, has contacted millions of new voters to impress upon them the urgency of this moment. For a generation that has grown up in the shadow of gun violence, the issue ranks as a top priority, second only to economic concerns.
“What helps keep me motivated is that we are in such a place to make change. If we’re not out talking to people, then actually nothing will change.”
Yoonie Yang, Students Demand Action
As the nation stands at this crossroads, the path it chooses will have profound implications for the safety of communities, schools, and the next generation. With so much on the line, advocates are clear-eyed about the importance of this election and unwavering in their commitment to creating a safer, less violent future for all.
