Morning Wire Record Gun Ownership: What’s Behind the Surge? | 12.2.23
Dec 3, 2023
Stephen Gutowski, a Second Amendment expert and founder of The Reload, dives into the record surge in American gun ownership, now at 52%. He discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic and social unrest spiked firearms purchases, and what this means for the future of the Second Amendment. Gutowski also highlights shifting demographics in gun ownership, particularly among black Americans, and the implications of aggressive gun control strategies by the current administration. Potential legislative changes looming after the 2024 elections are also explored.
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2020 Gun Ownership Surge
- Several factors in 2020 caused a surge in gun ownership.
- These included COVID shutdowns, George Floyd's death, and subsequent riots.
Shifting Demographics of Gun Owners
- The rise in Black gun ownership reflects a broader trend of younger, more diverse gun owners.
- This shift is driven by self-defense concerns and positive experiences shared within communities.
Gun Ownership and Crime Rates
- Despite increased gun ownership, the murder rate has declined significantly.
- This challenges the claim that more guns automatically lead to more gun crime.