The National Rifle Association suggested in an unsigned statement Tuesday that President Obama’s executive actions to curb gun violence will be abused by his administration.
Obama gave an emotional speech Tuesday and announced several initiatives to fight gun violence, including broader background checks on gun purchases and additional support to aid those with mental illnesses.
In his speech, Obama criticized Congress and gun advocacy groups that have advocated against gun reform.
“Today’s event also represents an ongoing attempt to distract attention away from his lack of a coherent strategy to keep the American people safe from terrorist attack [sic],” according to the NRA’s statement.
Obama said he “believes” in the Second Amendment, but also thinks there are steps that could be taken to curb gun violence in conjunction with the law.
But the NRA railed against Obama’s sentiments.
“The proposed executive actions are ripe for abuse by the Obama Administration, which has made no secret of its contempt for the Second Amendment. The NRA will continue to fight to protect the fundamental, individual Right to Keep and Bear Arms as guaranteed under our Constitution,” according to the statement. “We will not allow law-abiding gun owners to be harassed or intimidated for engaging in lawful, constitutionally-protected activity – nor will we allow them to become scapegoats for President Obama’s failed policies.”
