Trump’s Executive Order: A New Order Against Biden’s Gun Control Push

Hand holding gun with American flag background.

President Trump issues executive order challenging Biden’s gun control efforts, sparking debate on Second Amendment rights.

Quick Takes

  • Trump’s executive order aims to review and potentially undo federal gun regulations.
  • Attorney General Pam Bondi tasked with examining agency rules for improper restrictions on gun rights.
  • Order directs review of actions from January 2021 to January 2025, including ATF rules.
  • Gun-rights groups applaud the move, while gun-control advocates criticize it.

Trump’s Executive Order: A Bold Move for Second Amendment Rights

In a significant development for gun rights advocates, President Donald Trump has issued an executive order titled “Protecting Second Amendment Rights.” This order aims to review and potentially undo federal regulations that may infringe upon the Second Amendment. The move is seen as a direct challenge to the Biden administration’s efforts to strengthen firearm regulations and marks Trump’s first direct action on gun policy since returning to office.

The executive order tasks Attorney General Pam Bondi with examining agency rules and policies, particularly those implemented during the Biden Administration, for any improper restrictions on gun rights. Bondi has been given 30 days to complete this review and propose a plan of action to protect Second Amendment rights, working in conjunction with Domestic Policy Advisor Steven Miller.

Scope of the Review

The order’s scope is comprehensive, directing Bondi to review actions from January 2021 to January 2025. This includes scrutinizing ATF rules on unfinished firearm parts and pistol-braced guns, as well as the agency’s “zero tolerance” policy for regulating licensed gun dealers. The review will also examine reports from the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention and the government’s position in gun-rights litigation.

“Promises made to law-abiding gun owners are being kept by President Donald J. Trump,” said Doug Hamlin, NRA Executive Vice President in reference to the order.

Additionally, the Attorney General is tasked with assessing international agreements and litigation affecting Second Amendment rights. This comprehensive approach underscores the administration’s commitment to preserving gun ownership rights as outlined in the Constitution.

Reactions and Implications

The executive order has been met with mixed reactions. Gun-rights groups have responded positively, viewing it as a fulfillment of Trump’s promises to gun owners. Aidan Johnston, Gun Owners of America’s Director of Federal Affairs, expressed strong support for the move.

“Gun owners fought hard to elect a president who would take a sledgehammer to Biden’s unconstitutional gun control policies, and today, President Trump proved he’s serious about that fight,” said Johnston.

However, gun-control groups have criticized the order, suggesting it contradicts Trump’s previous commitments to reduce gun trafficking. The Brady PAC raised questions about the consistency of Trump’s policies, particularly in light of recent discussions with Mexico’s president about clamping down on gun trafficking.

Looking Ahead

As the 30-day review period progresses, all eyes will be on Attorney General Bondi and her team. The proposed plan of action could have far-reaching implications for gun rights and regulations in the United States. While the order itself does not create enforceable rights or benefits against the U.S. government, it sets the stage for potential changes in federal gun policy.

The executive order emphasizes the importance of the Second Amendment as a safeguard of security and liberty. As the debate over gun rights and public safety continues, this move by the Trump administration is sure to intensify discussions and potentially lead to significant policy shifts in the coming months.