Kamala Harris’s Vice Presidential Contenders: Positions on Gun Control

With Kamala Harris practically assured the top spot on the Democratic ballot this November, the buzz now surrounds her choice for vice president. While her track record on gun control is crystal clear, the potential VP picks might amplify or somewhat temper her stance. Here’s a look at the leading contenders:

Josh Shapiro – Pennsylvania Governor

Shapiro, a staunch gun control advocate, has a history of pushing restrictive measures. As Pennsylvania’s Attorney General, he sought to close the so-called “ghost gun” loophole, support universal background checks, and enforce red flag laws. Despite backing from major gun-control groups, his aggressive stance saw only partial success, facing resistance in the state’s Republican-controlled Senate.

His tenure also includes legal action against the distribution of 3D-printable gun blueprints and support for amicus briefs defending stringent gun control laws in other states. Shapiro’s willingness to embrace an assault weapons ban puts him firmly in the anti-gun camp, a perfect match to reinforce Harris’s agenda.

Mark Kelly – Arizona Senator

Kelly’s background as a Navy pilot and astronaut, coupled with his personal connection to gun violence through his wife, former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, positions him as another strong gun control advocate. Despite his claims of supporting the Second Amendment, his legislative actions tell a different story.

He has supported universal background checks, red flag laws, and the controversial Bipartisan Safer Communities Act. Kelly’s endorsement of the GOSAFE Act, which aims to ban popular semi-automatic firearms like the AR-15, reveals his true colors. His consistent push for stricter regulations aligns seamlessly with Harris’s gun control objectives.

Roy Cooper – North Carolina Governor

Governor Cooper’s advocacy for universal background checks, red flag laws, and assault weapon bans marks him as another ally in the gun control crusade. Despite limited legislative success due to North Carolina’s Republican-majority legislature, Cooper’s executive actions show his determination.

He established an Office of Violence Prevention and initiated a safe storage campaign via executive orders. Cooper’s resistance to repealing the state’s pistol purchase permit requirement, despite legislative overrides, further highlights his commitment to restrictive gun laws.

Andy Beshear – Kentucky Governor

Beshear, though perceived as more moderate, has called for red-flag laws following a tragic mass shooting. Despite opposing an assault weapon ban and allowing pro-gun legislation to pass without his signature, Beshear’s track record includes support for certain gun control measures.

His nuanced stance might seem less aggressive compared to his counterparts, but his willingness to entertain red-flag laws and not actively support pro-gun legislation paints a picture of cautious alignment with stricter gun policies.

The Bottom Line

Harris’s potential VP picks paint a dire picture for gun rights advocates. Each contender, with varying degrees of enthusiasm, supports measures that could severely impact Second Amendment freedoms. With Harris at the helm, backed by these like-minded individuals, the future of gun rights faces significant threats.