There’s robust support for universal background checks on gun buyers even in a Republican stronghold renowned for its hunting culture, according to a poll released earlier this week.
The latest survey from Nielson Brothers Polling found that 62 percent of South Dakota voters support universal background checks, while just 25 percent said they are opposed.
It’s yet another reminder of the widespread support for universal background checks, and further evidence that the proposal can be sold to otherwise conservative constituencies. After Senate legislation designed to expand background checks failed in April, Democratic-leaning Public Policy Polling found that many Republicans who voted against the measure may pay a political price, even in red states. South Dakota’s two members of the Senate split on background check measure. Sen. Tim Johnson (D-SD), who’s retiring at the end of next year, voted yes, while Sen. John Thune (R-SD) voted no.
The Nielson Brothers poll found that 41 percent of South Dakota voters are more likely to vote for a candidate who supports universal background checks, while 26 percent said they would be less likely to support such a candidate.
In March, South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R) signed the so-called “school sentinels” bill, making it the first state to pass a law that specifically permits teachers to carry firearms on campus. According to government estimates, hunting generates millions of dollars annually in retail sales, salaries, wages and business owner’s income in South Dakota.
