The National Rifle Association (NRA) is optimistic about the future of Second Amendment rights with President-elect Donald Trump in the White House. After years of battling anti-gun policies in Washington and state capitals, NRA CEO and Executive Vice President Doug Hamlin expressed excitement about working with Trump on several pro-gun initiatives. The NRA is eager to support Trump in pushing for national concealed carry reciprocity and reforms at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).
Hamlin noted that Trump’s four years of experience would benefit the NRA’s efforts, including advocating for national concealed carry reciprocity. Currently, while all states allow concealed carry, not all permit those with a valid license to carry across state lines. For example, Virginia license holders cannot carry concealed weapons in Washington, D.C., or Maryland. Legislation for national concealed carry reciprocity has been before Congress for years, and with the current political climate, the NRA believes the 2024 legislative environment presents the best opportunity for its passage.
With over 20 million Americans holding concealed carry permits and gun sales exceeding one million per month for over five years, the NRA is confident that now is the time to push for this change. Hamlin emphasized that if the Biden administration continues to push anti-gun policies, it could prompt some Democrats to reconsider their stance on issues like concealed carry.
In addition to concealed carry reciprocity, the NRA is also focused on the ATF’s leadership. Hamlin highlighted the importance of appointing a new ATF director who respects law-abiding gun owners and reverses recent rules that have restricted gun rights without congressional approval. The NRA is advocating for a director who will support gun rights, rather than bureaucratic overreach.
Hamlin also praised Trump for his strong support of the NRA, noting that while Trump is not a gun enthusiast himself, his sons are, and Trump has repeatedly spoken at NRA conventions. The NRA’s support played a significant role in Trump’s victories in battleground states in 2016 and 2024, where they invested heavily in key Senate races.
Looking ahead, Hamlin said the NRA’s work is far from over. With support from the White House and strong majorities in both the House and Senate, the NRA plans to continue refining its legislative agenda and working with lawmakers to pass pro-gun policies. Hamlin reiterated the organization’s commitment to remaining active on Capitol Hill, advocating for the protection of Second Amendment freedoms.
