President Joe Biden reaffirmed his commitment to banning assault weapons and high-capacity magazines during a speech to Democratic lawmakers on Wednesday, declaring the effort would proceed "come hell or high water." Biden addressed members of Congress at the House Democratic Caucus Issues Conference in Baltimore, referencing his home state's gun ownership rates while emphasizing his resolve.
A Divisive Battle Over Gun Legislation
"I know I may make some of you uncomfortable," Biden said, "but that little state above me, Delaware … has one of the highest rates of gun ownership. But guess what? We're going to ban assault weapons again, come hell or high water, and high-capacity magazines." The president has long advocated for restrictions but has faced criticism for inconsistent messaging about the scope of proposed bans.
In November, Biden called the sale of semi-automatic weapons "sick," stating, "It has no socially redeeming value. Zero. None. Not a single solitary rationale for it except profit for the gun manufacturers." Semi-automatic weapons, which include many popular handguns, rifles, and shotguns, account for about half of all gun sales in the U.S., according to industry estimates.
The proposal faces significant opposition from Republicans, who argue such restrictions infringe on Second Amendment rights and could impact a gun market that accounts for billions in annual sales. Rep. Mark Alford (R., Mo.) called Biden's stance "sheer ignorance," while Rep. Thomas Massie (R., Ky.) accused the president of "maligning most gun owners." Actor James Woods criticized the plan on social media, claiming it would effectively target "all guns."