VP Harris Discloses Personal Gun Ownership Amid Gun Control Debate

During a debate with Republican candidate Donald Trump, Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris disclosed her ownership of a handgun, a move designed to counter perceptions that her party seeks to confiscate firearms. The revelation, which surprised some voters, highlighted Harris’s attempt to balance her gun control stance with personal experience.

Personal Safety and Political Messaging

Harris, who owns the handgun for personal safety, has kept it secured at her California home. The gun was first mentioned during her 2019 campaign. In the debate, Harris defended her stance on gun ownership by asserting, “This business about taking everyone’s guns away Tim Walz and I are both gun owners. We’re not taking anybody’s guns away, so stop with the continuous lying about this stuff.” Walz, her running mate, also supports gun ownership.

Gun Control Policies and Public Perception

Despite her personal ownership, Harris advocates for stricter gun safety laws. She supports universal background checks, red flag laws, and bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines to address the high rate of gun violence in the US. Her position contrasts with Republican claims that Democrats aim to infringe on the Second Amendment rights.

Harris’s goal is to appeal to both gun owners and those who favor more regulation, reflecting the complex landscape of American gun politics. In a previous 2015 interview, Harris revealed her experience with firearms, stating she had shot a pistol many times.

Trump’s Gun Ownership Status

In contrast, Trump’s New York concealed carry license was suspended in April 2023 following a criminal indictment. He turned over two of his three pistols and relocated the third to Florida.

Harris’s disclosure aims to underscore her commitment to addressing gun violence while acknowledging the reality of gun ownership, seeking to bridge the gap between personal experience and policy advocacy.