Issue Page

Gun Policy

Gun policy involves balancing Second Amendment rights with efforts to reduce gun violence.

Gun Policy

Gun policy in America involves balancing Second Amendment protections with public safety concerns. Some support stronger regulations including universal background checks, permit requirements, red flag laws, and restrictions on certain weapons. Others believe these measures infringe on constitutional rights and that law-abiding citizens should face minimal barriers to gun ownership and self-defense.

How We Score It

Higher scores (+) — Voted for gun safety measures — supporting universal background checks, assault weapon regulations, and red flag laws.

Lower scores (−) — Voted against gun restrictions — opposing new background check requirements, assault weapon limits, or red flag laws.

Key Votes in Congress

Recent legislation that contributed to politician scores on this issue:

Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (2022)

First major federal gun legislation in nearly 30 years: expanded background checks and funded red flag laws.

Assault Weapons Ban proposals

Multiple attempts to ban the sale of semi-automatic rifles and high-capacity magazines. None have passed the Senate.

Background Checks Act (H.R. 8)

Would require background checks for all gun sales, including private transfers. Passed the House in 2021; no Senate vote.

How to Verify These Votes Yourself

Every score in PartyLine is based on official roll call records. You can cross-check any vote on GovTrack or Congress.gov.

Verification Guide →

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