Joe Biden on Gun Control

Joe Biden has consistently pushed for stricter federal gun control measures, framing it as a crucial step to combat gun violence in the United States. Key components of his agenda include calling on Congress to pass legislation that would ban so-called assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, as well as enacting universal background checks for all gun sales. As president, he has taken executive action, such as directing federal agencies to strengthen compliance with existing laws and improve background check implementation by expanding the definition of who must be a licensed dealer.

Beyond legislative goals, his administration has focused on leveraging executive power when Congress stalls, directing action on areas like secure firearm storage and promoting red-flag laws to temporarily remove guns from dangerous individuals. Advocates note his history of taking on the gun lobby, while critics argue that his focus on banning specific firearm types and restricting commerce does not address the root causes of violence and may infringe upon Second Amendment rights. He continues to use high-profile tragedies to call on Congress to pass more comprehensive gun safety legislation.