web01.fireside.fm Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:42:29 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The Weekly Reload Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “Virginia” https://thereload.fireside.fm/tags/virginia Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 A podcast from The Reload that offers sober, serious firearms reporting and analysis. It focuses on gun policy, politics, and culture. Tune in to hear from Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski and special guests from across the gun world each week. en-us episodic A podcast featuring The Reload's Stephen Gutowski Stephen Gutowski A podcast from The Reload that offers sober, serious firearms reporting and analysis. It focuses on gun policy, politics, and culture. Tune in to hear from Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski and special guests from across the gun world each week. no gun news, gun politics, firearms, policy, politics, culture, gun culture, gun ownership Stephen Gutowski gutowski@thereload.com Where Virginia's Gun Laws Now Stand (Ft. Cam Edwards) http://thereload.fireside.fm/where-virginias-gun-laws-now-stand-ft-cam-edwards b76084b4-fe7a-4e15-b571-f3dd35c0394c Mon, 27 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Stephen Gutowski and Bearing Arms editor Cam Edwards discuss the latest developments in Virginia's gun-control push. 1:03:50 no This week, we're examining where the big push for new gun restrictions in Virginia has ended up. The legislature has finished its job. So, we have fellow-Virginian and gun commentator Cam Edwards from Bearing Arms on the show to go over where things stand. Lawmakers accepted seven of Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger's recommendations for changes to the gun bills they passed. However, she rejected two of her most significant changes, including one to the "assault firearms" ban. That means she will have to decide whether to sign or veto the original language she was sent. Cam said animosity between the governor and legislative leaders may be part of the reason the House and Senate rejected her changes. However, he said it's unlikely she vetoes either bill as a result.  He also agreed the overall package is among the most aggressive any state has passed in a decade or more. Cam argued that could drag down the governor and her party's numbers, leaving an opening for Republicans to outperform in next year's elections. But he also said there's a good chance the legislature could come back and double down on even more gun restrictions before then. Cam said the legal battle is where a lot of the short-term action in the fight over these bills is likely to happen. He noted there are real hurdles to victory for gun-rights activists, though, especially in federal court. Special Guest: Cam Edwards. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, cam edwards, Virginia, abigail spanberger, gun control, gun law, assault weapons ban, assault firearms ban This week, we're examining where the big push for new gun restrictions in Virginia has ended up.

The legislature has finished its job. So, we have fellow-Virginian and gun commentator Cam Edwards from Bearing Arms on the show to go over where things stand.

Lawmakers accepted seven of Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger's recommendations for changes to the gun bills they passed. However, she rejected two of her most significant changes, including one to the "assault firearms" ban. That means she will have to decide whether to sign or veto the original language she was sent.

Cam said animosity between the governor and legislative leaders may be part of the reason the House and Senate rejected her changes. However, he said it's unlikely she vetoes either bill as a result. 

He also agreed the overall package is among the most aggressive any state has passed in a decade or more. Cam argued that could drag down the governor and her party's numbers, leaving an opening for Republicans to outperform in next year's elections. But he also said there's a good chance the legislature could come back and double down on even more gun restrictions before then.

Cam said the legal battle is where a lot of the short-term action in the fight over these bills is likely to happen. He noted there are real hurdles to victory for gun-rights activists, though, especially in federal court.

Special Guest: Cam Edwards.

]]> This week, we're examining where the big push for new gun restrictions in Virginia has ended up.

The legislature has finished its job. So, we have fellow-Virginian and gun commentator Cam Edwards from Bearing Arms on the show to go over where things stand.

Lawmakers accepted seven of Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger's recommendations for changes to the gun bills they passed. However, she rejected two of her most significant changes, including one to the "assault firearms" ban. That means she will have to decide whether to sign or veto the original language she was sent.

Cam said animosity between the governor and legislative leaders may be part of the reason the House and Senate rejected her changes. However, he said it's unlikely she vetoes either bill as a result. 

He also agreed the overall package is among the most aggressive any state has passed in a decade or more. Cam argued that could drag down the governor and her party's numbers, leaving an opening for Republicans to outperform in next year's elections. But he also said there's a good chance the legislature could come back and double down on even more gun restrictions before then.

Cam said the legal battle is where a lot of the short-term action in the fight over these bills is likely to happen. He noted there are real hurdles to victory for gun-rights activists, though, especially in federal court.

Special Guest: Cam Edwards.

]]> Trump Admin Makes Weed and Guns Change; Virginia Lawmakers Reject Some Spanberger Gun Amendments http://thereload.fireside.fm/trump-admin-makes-weed-and-guns-change-virginia-lawmakers-reject-some-spanberger-gun-amendments 5ab88802-728b-4fad-8555-c7bf3605b6aa Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski discuss the Trump Administration's move to make some marijuana use legal while maintaining its position in US v. Hemani. 1:02:32 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the Virginia legislature's rejection of Governor Abigail Spanberger's suggested amendments to increase the restrictiveness of passed "assault firearm" and magazine bans. We also discuss the Trump administration's official reclassification of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act and what it could mean for legal marijuana users who wish to own guns. Stories: -https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-rejects-governor-spanbergers-requests-to-tighten-ammo-mag-restrictions-hospital-gun-ban/ -https://thereload.com/trump-administration-reschedules-marijuana-tells-scotus-no-impact-on-weed-and-guns-case/ -https://thereload.com/maryland-gun-dealer-to-pay-baltimore-2-million-in-ghost-gun-settlement/ -https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-gun-control-nears-final-form-as-legislature-rejects-governors-biggest-requested-change/ guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, weed, marijuana, scotus, supreme court, virginia, gun control Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the Virginia legislature's rejection of Governor Abigail Spanberger's suggested amendments to increase the restrictiveness of passed "assault firearm" and magazine bans. We also discuss the Trump administration's official reclassification of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act and what it could mean for legal marijuana users who wish to own guns.

Stories:
-https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-rejects-governor-spanbergers-requests-to-tighten-ammo-mag-restrictions-hospital-gun-ban/
-https://thereload.com/trump-administration-reschedules-marijuana-tells-scotus-no-impact-on-weed-and-guns-case/
-https://thereload.com/maryland-gun-dealer-to-pay-baltimore-2-million-in-ghost-gun-settlement/
-https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-gun-control-nears-final-form-as-legislature-rejects-governors-biggest-requested-change/

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the Virginia legislature's rejection of Governor Abigail Spanberger's suggested amendments to increase the restrictiveness of passed "assault firearm" and magazine bans. We also discuss the Trump administration's official reclassification of marijuana under the Controlled Substances Act and what it could mean for legal marijuana users who wish to own guns.

Stories:
-https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-rejects-governor-spanbergers-requests-to-tighten-ammo-mag-restrictions-hospital-gun-ban/
-https://thereload.com/trump-administration-reschedules-marijuana-tells-scotus-no-impact-on-weed-and-guns-case/
-https://thereload.com/maryland-gun-dealer-to-pay-baltimore-2-million-in-ghost-gun-settlement/
-https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-gun-control-nears-final-form-as-legislature-rejects-governors-biggest-requested-change/

]]> Virginia Governor Wants Big Gun Bill Expansions (Ft. VCDL's Philip Van Cleave) http://thereload.fireside.fm/virginia-governor-wants-big-gun-bill-expansions-ft-vcdls-philip-van-cleave 6db2447e-a636-4c43-9749-f9810df3f868 Mon, 20 Apr 2026 05:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Stephen Gutowski and VCDL President Philip Van Cleave discuss the things Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger wants to a slew of gun-control bills. 53:20 no This week, we're doing a deep dive into the gun bills that have reached the final phase of the Virginia legislative process. That process is pretty unique, with Governor Abigail Spanberger (D.) having a rare ability to change bills after they've already passed. To break down how that process works and what Spanberger is trying to accomplish, we have Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) President Philip Van Cleave back on the show. The changes pushed legislation in both directions, but Van Cleave said VCDL was very angry with the overall suggestions Spanberger made. That's because her recommendations to moderate a few gun bills were far less significant than those to double down on other restrictions. Specifically, he argued the changes Spanberger pushed for the "assault firearm" carry and sales ban were the most significant. He said Spanberger's language change for what constitutes an "assault firearm" is confusing and could be read to be extremely expansive. He argued even if you take the most restrictive reading, the move would effectively ban the carry of the 15+ magazines the bill bans the sale of. That would be a substantial tightening of the proposed ban. Still, Van Cleave said some of the changes Spanberger recommended will probably face at least some pushback from the Democratically-controlled legislature. For instance, her request to convert the 18-to-20-year-old handgun ban into an emergency measure that would go into effect immediately actually requires a 4/5ths vote of both houses to pass. Even her "assault firearm" ban changes could be doomed because she removed exemptions for retired and off-duty police, a powerful political force. The legislature can only vote up and down on the overall changes in each bill, Van Cleave said. So, if they don't like one change, they have to reject them all. Whatever makes it into law, though, Van Cleave said VCDL would challenge in court. He said the group is likely to go to state court to challenge, and he welcomes the possibility that the Department of Justice might file suit against the new gun bans in federal court. Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, philip van cleave, vcdl, virginia, gun bills, gun control, ar-15, assault firearms, abigail spanberger This week, we're doing a deep dive into the gun bills that have reached the final phase of the Virginia legislative process.

That process is pretty unique, with Governor Abigail Spanberger (D.) having a rare ability to change bills after they've already passed. To break down how that process works and what Spanberger is trying to accomplish, we have Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) President Philip Van Cleave back on the show.

The changes pushed legislation in both directions, but Van Cleave said VCDL was very angry with the overall suggestions Spanberger made. That's because her recommendations to moderate a few gun bills were far less significant than those to double down on other restrictions. Specifically, he argued the changes Spanberger pushed for the "assault firearm" carry and sales ban were the most significant.

He said Spanberger's language change for what constitutes an "assault firearm" is confusing and could be read to be extremely expansive. He argued even if you take the most restrictive reading, the move would effectively ban the carry of the 15+ magazines the bill bans the sale of. That would be a substantial tightening of the proposed ban.

Still, Van Cleave said some of the changes Spanberger recommended will probably face at least some pushback from the Democratically-controlled legislature. For instance, her request to convert the 18-to-20-year-old handgun ban into an emergency measure that would go into effect immediately actually requires a 4/5ths vote of both houses to pass. Even her "assault firearm" ban changes could be doomed because she removed exemptions for retired and off-duty police, a powerful political force.

The legislature can only vote up and down on the overall changes in each bill, Van Cleave said. So, if they don't like one change, they have to reject them all.

Whatever makes it into law, though, Van Cleave said VCDL would challenge in court. He said the group is likely to go to state court to challenge, and he welcomes the possibility that the Department of Justice might file suit against the new gun bans in federal court.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> This week, we're doing a deep dive into the gun bills that have reached the final phase of the Virginia legislative process.

That process is pretty unique, with Governor Abigail Spanberger (D.) having a rare ability to change bills after they've already passed. To break down how that process works and what Spanberger is trying to accomplish, we have Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL) President Philip Van Cleave back on the show.

The changes pushed legislation in both directions, but Van Cleave said VCDL was very angry with the overall suggestions Spanberger made. That's because her recommendations to moderate a few gun bills were far less significant than those to double down on other restrictions. Specifically, he argued the changes Spanberger pushed for the "assault firearm" carry and sales ban were the most significant.

He said Spanberger's language change for what constitutes an "assault firearm" is confusing and could be read to be extremely expansive. He argued even if you take the most restrictive reading, the move would effectively ban the carry of the 15+ magazines the bill bans the sale of. That would be a substantial tightening of the proposed ban.

Still, Van Cleave said some of the changes Spanberger recommended will probably face at least some pushback from the Democratically-controlled legislature. For instance, her request to convert the 18-to-20-year-old handgun ban into an emergency measure that would go into effect immediately actually requires a 4/5ths vote of both houses to pass. Even her "assault firearm" ban changes could be doomed because she removed exemptions for retired and off-duty police, a powerful political force.

The legislature can only vote up and down on the overall changes in each bill, Van Cleave said. So, if they don't like one change, they have to reject them all.

Whatever makes it into law, though, Van Cleave said VCDL would challenge in court. He said the group is likely to go to state court to challenge, and he welcomes the possibility that the Department of Justice might file suit against the new gun bans in federal court.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> Virginia Governor Moves to Tighten Gun Bans; 2nd Circuit Upholds Taser Ban http://thereload.fireside.fm/virginia-governor-moves-to-tighten-gun-bans-2nd-circuit-upholds-taser-ban 9cbc1b42-6470-4a6e-b56f-0af8a2feeb1c Fri, 17 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder discuss the changes Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger requested to a slew of gun bills. 50:19 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I cover the changes requested by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger to the state's pending "assault firearm" ban and other major gun control bills. We also discuss a new ruling out of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upholding New York's ban on stun guns and tasers. Stories: -https://thereload.com/virginia-governor-sends-assault-firearms-ban-back-to-legislature-demands-expansion/ -https://thereload.com/spanberger-requests-stricter-hospital-gun-ban-from-virginia-legislature/ -https://thereload.com/federal-appeals-court-upholds-new-york-city-stun-gun-ban/ -https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-governor-pushes-to-further-tighten-new-gun-bans/ guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, virginia, assault firearms, abigail spanberger, gun carry, second circuit Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I cover the changes requested by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger to the state's pending "assault firearm" ban and other major gun control bills. We also discuss a new ruling out of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upholding New York's ban on stun guns and tasers.

Stories:
-https://thereload.com/virginia-governor-sends-assault-firearms-ban-back-to-legislature-demands-expansion/
-https://thereload.com/spanberger-requests-stricter-hospital-gun-ban-from-virginia-legislature/
-https://thereload.com/federal-appeals-court-upholds-new-york-city-stun-gun-ban/
-https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-governor-pushes-to-further-tighten-new-gun-bans/

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I cover the changes requested by Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger to the state's pending "assault firearm" ban and other major gun control bills. We also discuss a new ruling out of the Second Circuit Court of Appeals upholding New York's ban on stun guns and tasers.

Stories:
-https://thereload.com/virginia-governor-sends-assault-firearms-ban-back-to-legislature-demands-expansion/
-https://thereload.com/spanberger-requests-stricter-hospital-gun-ban-from-virginia-legislature/
-https://thereload.com/federal-appeals-court-upholds-new-york-city-stun-gun-ban/
-https://thereload.com/newsletter-virginia-governor-pushes-to-further-tighten-new-gun-bans/

]]> VA Dems Pass AR-15, Magazine Ban; LA Court Fails to Report Felony Convictions http://thereload.fireside.fm/va-dems-pass-ar-15-magazine-ban-la-court-fails-to-report-felony-convictions 898a9d5d-5e18-41e2-8d66-0ebd57447118 Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski discuss the fallout from Virginia passing a new "assault firearms" ban. 59:45 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the new "assault firearm" and ammunition magazine ban passed by the Virginia legislature this week. We also cover the Los Angeles County Superior Court's admission that it failed to report roughly 147,000 felony convictions to the state background check system. Links: https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-passes-ar-15-ammo-mag-sales-ban/ https://thereload.com/los-angeles-court-didnt-report-felony-convictions-to-background-check-system-for-years/ https://thereload.com/beretta-fires-back-after-ruger-accuses-italian-gunmaker-of-hostile-takeover-attempt/ https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2026/03/10/trump-felons-gun-rights-mel-gibson/89069619007/ https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/03/california-gun-control-laws-newsom-firearm/ guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, ar-15, virginia, california, los angeles, gun bill, gun legislation, assault weapons ban, beretta, ruger Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the new "assault firearm" and ammunition magazine ban passed by the Virginia legislature this week. We also cover the Los Angeles County Superior Court's admission that it failed to report roughly 147,000 felony convictions to the state background check system.

Links:
https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-passes-ar-15-ammo-mag-sales-ban/
https://thereload.com/los-angeles-court-didnt-report-felony-convictions-to-background-check-system-for-years/
https://thereload.com/beretta-fires-back-after-ruger-accuses-italian-gunmaker-of-hostile-takeover-attempt/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2026/03/10/trump-felons-gun-rights-mel-gibson/89069619007/
https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/03/california-gun-control-laws-newsom-firearm/

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the new "assault firearm" and ammunition magazine ban passed by the Virginia legislature this week. We also cover the Los Angeles County Superior Court's admission that it failed to report roughly 147,000 felony convictions to the state background check system.

Links:
https://thereload.com/virginia-legislature-passes-ar-15-ammo-mag-sales-ban/
https://thereload.com/los-angeles-court-didnt-report-felony-convictions-to-background-check-system-for-years/
https://thereload.com/beretta-fires-back-after-ruger-accuses-italian-gunmaker-of-hostile-takeover-attempt/
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/investigations/2026/03/10/trump-felons-gun-rights-mel-gibson/89069619007/
https://calmatters.org/politics/2026/03/california-gun-control-laws-newsom-firearm/

]]> DC Court Strikes Down Ammo Mag Ban; Virginia Gun Sales Surge http://thereload.fireside.fm/dc-court-strikes-down-ammo-mag-ban-virginia-gun-sales-surge 31e7c21d-52af-42a5-aa7a-062d207f6830 Fri, 06 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0500 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski discuss a new ruling against Washington, DC's magazine restrictions. 1:04:29 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss a new ruling from the DC Court of Appeals determining that the District's ten round magazine limit violates the Second Amendment, at least as applied to a particular criminal defendant. We also cover new NSSF background check data showing a surge in gun sales in Virginia while the state weighs strict new gun control bills, plus we recap the week's Supreme Court oral arguments in US v. Hemani. Links: https://thereload.com/dcs-highest-court-strikes-down-ammo-magazine-ban/ https://thereload.com/virginia-gun-sales-surge-as-democrats-move-dozens-of-new-restrictions/ https://thereload.com/supreme-court-skeptical-of-marijuana-user-gun-ban-in-oral-arguments/ https://thereload.com/analysis-the-path-for-the-government-to-win-scotus-weed-and-guns-case-member-exclusive/ https://thereload.com/analysis-have-gun-rights-advocates-found-a-way-around-the-machinegun-sales-ban-member-exclusive/ https://wvmetronews.com/2026/03/03/machine-gun-legislation-gets-jammed-up-in-west-virginia-senate/ https://www.texastribune.org/2026/03/05/tony-gonzales-drops-out-republican-primary-texas-23rd-district-congress/ guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, dc, washington, magazine ban, supreme court, us v hemani, hemani, weed, marijuana, virginia, gun sales Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss a new ruling from the DC Court of Appeals determining that the District's ten round magazine limit violates the Second Amendment, at least as applied to a particular criminal defendant. We also cover new NSSF background check data showing a surge in gun sales in Virginia while the state weighs strict new gun control bills, plus we recap the week's Supreme Court oral arguments in US v. Hemani.

Links:
https://thereload.com/dcs-highest-court-strikes-down-ammo-magazine-ban/
https://thereload.com/virginia-gun-sales-surge-as-democrats-move-dozens-of-new-restrictions/
https://thereload.com/supreme-court-skeptical-of-marijuana-user-gun-ban-in-oral-arguments/
https://thereload.com/analysis-the-path-for-the-government-to-win-scotus-weed-and-guns-case-member-exclusive/
https://thereload.com/analysis-have-gun-rights-advocates-found-a-way-around-the-machinegun-sales-ban-member-exclusive/
https://wvmetronews.com/2026/03/03/machine-gun-legislation-gets-jammed-up-in-west-virginia-senate/
https://www.texastribune.org/2026/03/05/tony-gonzales-drops-out-republican-primary-texas-23rd-district-congress/

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss a new ruling from the DC Court of Appeals determining that the District's ten round magazine limit violates the Second Amendment, at least as applied to a particular criminal defendant. We also cover new NSSF background check data showing a surge in gun sales in Virginia while the state weighs strict new gun control bills, plus we recap the week's Supreme Court oral arguments in US v. Hemani.

Links:
https://thereload.com/dcs-highest-court-strikes-down-ammo-magazine-ban/
https://thereload.com/virginia-gun-sales-surge-as-democrats-move-dozens-of-new-restrictions/
https://thereload.com/supreme-court-skeptical-of-marijuana-user-gun-ban-in-oral-arguments/
https://thereload.com/analysis-the-path-for-the-government-to-win-scotus-weed-and-guns-case-member-exclusive/
https://thereload.com/analysis-have-gun-rights-advocates-found-a-way-around-the-machinegun-sales-ban-member-exclusive/
https://wvmetronews.com/2026/03/03/machine-gun-legislation-gets-jammed-up-in-west-virginia-senate/
https://www.texastribune.org/2026/03/05/tony-gonzales-drops-out-republican-primary-texas-23rd-district-congress/

]]> What's Going on With Virginia's Gun Laws? (Ft. VCDL's Philip Van Cleave) http://thereload.fireside.fm/whats-going-on-with-virginias-gun-laws-ft-vcdls-philip-van-cleave 7373eb88-2b6e-4884-bd3a-9b97437b7dba Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Stephen Gutowski and guest Philip Van Cleave go over the dozens of gun bills in Virginia. 56:35 no This week, we're taking a comprehensive look at the dozens of gun bills up for debate in Virginia. Our guest is Philip Van Cleave. He's the president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), and one of the top gun-rights activists working in Richmond. He has been on the ground since the beginning of the session, and he has tracked every gun bill going through the legislature. So far, 33 gun bills have passed through at least one chamber. Many have passed through both. Some are already identical copies, and on their way to Governor Abigal Spanberger's (D.) desk, where she's expected to sign them. However, Van Cleave said there are several bills that each house will have to reconcile during what's called "crossover" in Virginia. That's where he believes gun-rights activists still have a chance to block at least some of the bills. He noted they were already able to block a few bills, such as the proposed $500 tax on suppressors. Still, he said it's going to be an uphill battle to block big-ticket items like the "assault weapons" banand numerous gun-carry restrictions. But he said VCDL is going to keep pressuring lawmakers and the governor until the session ends. Then he said they plan to pursue legal actions if some of the more aggressive restrictions pass. Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, philip van cleave, vcdl, virginia, gun bills, gun control, ar-15, assault weapons This week, we're taking a comprehensive look at the dozens of gun bills up for debate in Virginia.

Our guest is Philip Van Cleave. He's the president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), and one of the top gun-rights activists working in Richmond. He has been on the ground since the beginning of the session, and he has tracked every gun bill going through the legislature.

So far, 33 gun bills have passed through at least one chamber. Many have passed through both. Some are already identical copies, and on their way to Governor Abigal Spanberger's (D.) desk, where she's expected to sign them.

However, Van Cleave said there are several bills that each house will have to reconcile during what's called "crossover" in Virginia. That's where he believes gun-rights activists still have a chance to block at least some of the bills. He noted they were already able to block a few bills, such as the proposed $500 tax on suppressors.

Still, he said it's going to be an uphill battle to block big-ticket items like the "assault weapons" banand numerous gun-carry restrictions. But he said VCDL is going to keep pressuring lawmakers and the governor until the session ends. Then he said they plan to pursue legal actions if some of the more aggressive restrictions pass.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> This week, we're taking a comprehensive look at the dozens of gun bills up for debate in Virginia.

Our guest is Philip Van Cleave. He's the president of the Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), and one of the top gun-rights activists working in Richmond. He has been on the ground since the beginning of the session, and he has tracked every gun bill going through the legislature.

So far, 33 gun bills have passed through at least one chamber. Many have passed through both. Some are already identical copies, and on their way to Governor Abigal Spanberger's (D.) desk, where she's expected to sign them.

However, Van Cleave said there are several bills that each house will have to reconcile during what's called "crossover" in Virginia. That's where he believes gun-rights activists still have a chance to block at least some of the bills. He noted they were already able to block a few bills, such as the proposed $500 tax on suppressors.

Still, he said it's going to be an uphill battle to block big-ticket items like the "assault weapons" banand numerous gun-carry restrictions. But he said VCDL is going to keep pressuring lawmakers and the governor until the session ends. Then he said they plan to pursue legal actions if some of the more aggressive restrictions pass.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> Trump Admin Attacks Gun-Carry After Pretti Shooting; VA Dems Push 'Assault Weapon' Ban, Magazine Confiscation http://thereload.fireside.fm/trump-admin-attacks-gun-carry-after-pretti-shooting-va-dems-push-assault-weapon-ban-magazine-confiscation 7692a60b-02cb-424b-8242-c5a2b8599e0d Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:00:00 -0500 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski discuss the fallout from the Alex Pretti killing as well as the latest Virginia gun bills. 52:16 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the ongoing fallout from the Alex Pretti shooting as it relates to gun politics, including the fact that Trump administration officials have repeatedly questioned common gun carry practices. Meanwhile, prominent Democrats and gun-control advocates have rhetorically defended Pretti's Second Amendment rights, even as their allies in Virginia are advancing legislation that would have criminalized nearly every aspect of his conduct. Links: https://thereload.com/newsletter-the-fallout-from-the-alex-pretti-shooting/ https://thereload.com/trump-doubles-down-on-attacking-gun-carry-in-wake-of-alex-pretti-killing/ https://thereload.com/analysis-will-trumps-anti-carry-comments-translate-to-policy-member-exclusive/ https://thereload.com/several-gun-rights-groups-call-for-investigation-into-ice-killing-of-ccw-permittee/ https://thereload.com/virginia-democrats-advance-assault-weapon-ban-magazine-confiscation-language/ https://thereload.com/analysis-is-the-atfs-new-rule-for-drug-users-a-curb-your-enthusiasm-scenario/ https://www.ms.now/opinion/trump-alex-pretti-nra-cbp-minneapolis-shooting-essayli https://bearingarms.com/camedwards/2026/01/29/doj-sides-with-2a-groups-in-challenge-to-massachusetts-gun-ban-n1231386 https://www.abqjournal.com/news/gun-bill-sparks-emotional-debate-at-roundhouse/2970242 guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, alex pretti, donald trump, nra, goa, minnesota, virginia, assault weapons ban, magazine confiscation Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the ongoing fallout from the Alex Pretti shooting as it relates to gun politics, including the fact that Trump administration officials have repeatedly questioned common gun carry practices. Meanwhile, prominent Democrats and gun-control advocates have rhetorically defended Pretti's Second Amendment rights, even as their allies in Virginia are advancing legislation that would have criminalized nearly every aspect of his conduct.

Links:
https://thereload.com/newsletter-the-fallout-from-the-alex-pretti-shooting/
https://thereload.com/trump-doubles-down-on-attacking-gun-carry-in-wake-of-alex-pretti-killing/
https://thereload.com/analysis-will-trumps-anti-carry-comments-translate-to-policy-member-exclusive/
https://thereload.com/several-gun-rights-groups-call-for-investigation-into-ice-killing-of-ccw-permittee/
https://thereload.com/virginia-democrats-advance-assault-weapon-ban-magazine-confiscation-language/
https://thereload.com/analysis-is-the-atfs-new-rule-for-drug-users-a-curb-your-enthusiasm-scenario/
https://www.ms.now/opinion/trump-alex-pretti-nra-cbp-minneapolis-shooting-essayli
https://bearingarms.com/camedwards/2026/01/29/doj-sides-with-2a-groups-in-challenge-to-massachusetts-gun-ban-n1231386
https://www.abqjournal.com/news/gun-bill-sparks-emotional-debate-at-roundhouse/2970242

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the ongoing fallout from the Alex Pretti shooting as it relates to gun politics, including the fact that Trump administration officials have repeatedly questioned common gun carry practices. Meanwhile, prominent Democrats and gun-control advocates have rhetorically defended Pretti's Second Amendment rights, even as their allies in Virginia are advancing legislation that would have criminalized nearly every aspect of his conduct.

Links:
https://thereload.com/newsletter-the-fallout-from-the-alex-pretti-shooting/
https://thereload.com/trump-doubles-down-on-attacking-gun-carry-in-wake-of-alex-pretti-killing/
https://thereload.com/analysis-will-trumps-anti-carry-comments-translate-to-policy-member-exclusive/
https://thereload.com/several-gun-rights-groups-call-for-investigation-into-ice-killing-of-ccw-permittee/
https://thereload.com/virginia-democrats-advance-assault-weapon-ban-magazine-confiscation-language/
https://thereload.com/analysis-is-the-atfs-new-rule-for-drug-users-a-curb-your-enthusiasm-scenario/
https://www.ms.now/opinion/trump-alex-pretti-nra-cbp-minneapolis-shooting-essayli
https://bearingarms.com/camedwards/2026/01/29/doj-sides-with-2a-groups-in-challenge-to-massachusetts-gun-ban-n1231386
https://www.abqjournal.com/news/gun-bill-sparks-emotional-debate-at-roundhouse/2970242

]]> Gun Control Wins Big in Off-Year Elections; Everytown Goes After Ruger http://thereload.fireside.fm/gun-control-wins-big-in-off-year-elections-everytown-goes-after-ruger c387fd6f-10e2-4ee7-96d1-557781096edb Fri, 07 Nov 2025 13:00:00 -0500 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Jake Fogleman and Reload Founder Stephen Gutowski discuss the fallout from the 2025 elections. 53:22 no Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I recap the results of the off-year elections this past week, which saw Democratic candidates and gun-control ballot measures alike win big. We discuss what that might portend for likely changes in gun policy moving forward. We also cover Everytown's latest attempt to replicate its success in pressuring Glock to redesign its handguns, this time by going after Ruger. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, jake fogleman, election, 2025 elections, virginia, new jersey, maine, red flag laws, gun control, nra, everytown, ruger, glock Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I recap the results of the off-year elections this past week, which saw Democratic candidates and gun-control ballot measures alike win big. We discuss what that might portend for likely changes in gun policy moving forward. We also cover Everytown's latest attempt to replicate its success in pressuring Glock to redesign its handguns, this time by going after Ruger.

]]> Contributing writer Jake Fogleman and I recap the results of the off-year elections this past week, which saw Democratic candidates and gun-control ballot measures alike win big. We discuss what that might portend for likely changes in gun policy moving forward. We also cover Everytown's latest attempt to replicate its success in pressuring Glock to redesign its handguns, this time by going after Ruger.

]]> Youngkin Wipes Out Slate of Virginia Gun-Control Bills (ft. Cam Edwards) http://thereload.fireside.fm/youngkin-wipes-out-slate-of-virginia-gun-control-bills-ft-cam-edwards c83c7b0f-1189-4a62-aff8-c26a2508fdd2 Mon, 01 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Stephen Gutowski and guest Cam Edwards discuss Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) vetoing 30 gun bills. 1:32:47 no This week, we're examining the implications of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) vetoing 30 different gun-control bills. Joining us to do that is Cam Edwards of Bearing Arms. He has long been one of the top pro-gun analysts out there. He also happens to live in Virginia, like me. So, he has paid special attention to the fight over guns in Virginia. Not just this year either, but for the last several election cycles. He argued the dynamics at play during this year's legislative session were pretty surprising. Not only did we not know what Youngkin would do with the dozens of gun bills that made it to his desk before he formally announced his vetoes, but the way those proposals got through the legislature was surprising too. Every Democrat in the state house held together to vote for every single proposal, even the more aggressive bans and restrictions. Cam said that was a fascinating development given the large grassroots backlash the party faced after its last attempt to enact sweeping gun reforms in 2020. He also argued the dynamic that has developed in the state's gun politics should be very concerning for gun-rights advocates. Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss President Biden's approval on guns falling below 30 percent. Special Guest: Cam Edwards. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, cam edwards, virginia, glenn youngkin This week, we're examining the implications of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) vetoing 30 different gun-control bills.

Joining us to do that is Cam Edwards of Bearing Arms. He has long been one of the top pro-gun analysts out there. He also happens to live in Virginia, like me.

So, he has paid special attention to the fight over guns in Virginia. Not just this year either, but for the last several election cycles. He argued the dynamics at play during this year's legislative session were pretty surprising.

Not only did we not know what Youngkin would do with the dozens of gun bills that made it to his desk before he formally announced his vetoes, but the way those proposals got through the legislature was surprising too. Every Democrat in the state house held together to vote for every single proposal, even the more aggressive bans and restrictions.

Cam said that was a fascinating development given the large grassroots backlash the party faced after its last attempt to enact sweeping gun reforms in 2020. He also argued the dynamic that has developed in the state's gun politics should be very concerning for gun-rights advocates.

Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss President Biden's approval on guns falling below 30 percent.

Special Guest: Cam Edwards.

]]> This week, we're examining the implications of Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) vetoing 30 different gun-control bills.

Joining us to do that is Cam Edwards of Bearing Arms. He has long been one of the top pro-gun analysts out there. He also happens to live in Virginia, like me.

So, he has paid special attention to the fight over guns in Virginia. Not just this year either, but for the last several election cycles. He argued the dynamics at play during this year's legislative session were pretty surprising.

Not only did we not know what Youngkin would do with the dozens of gun bills that made it to his desk before he formally announced his vetoes, but the way those proposals got through the legislature was surprising too. Every Democrat in the state house held together to vote for every single proposal, even the more aggressive bans and restrictions.

Cam said that was a fascinating development given the large grassroots backlash the party faced after its last attempt to enact sweeping gun reforms in 2020. He also argued the dynamic that has developed in the state's gun politics should be very concerning for gun-rights advocates.

Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss President Biden's approval on guns falling below 30 percent.

Special Guest: Cam Edwards.

]]> VCDL President Gives Outlook on How Guns Impact the 2023 Virginia Elections http://thereload.fireside.fm/vcdl-president-gives-outlook-on-how-guns-impact-the-2023-virginia-elections 0123f193-be05-4ef8-a0ec-799c2b155645 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 05:00:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski Host Stephen Gutowski and guest Philip Van Cleave look at the upcoming Virginia elections. 59:57 no This week, we're looking ahead at Virginia's off-year elections. Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) is halfway through his first term, and now the entire state legislature is up for election. Republicans currently have a four-vote majority in the House of Delegates, while Democrats have a two-vote majority in the Senate. That's led to very little movement on gun policy since the Democrats lost their trifecta after passing universal background checks, a one-gun-a-month limit, a "red flag" law, local gun-free zones, and other restrictions in 2020. The outcome of the election will either preserve the status quo or potentially lead to the repeal of at least some restrictions. That's why we have Virginia Citizen Defense League (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave on the show to tell us how his group sees things unfolding. Van Cleave said VCDL is working to build enthusiasm among gun voters and get them out to the polls early. He admitted there was some concern about how motivated gun owners are in this election, in part because the threat of new gun-control laws is limited. Still, he believes gun-rights advocates should be able to pull out a win and pressure Republicans into repealing most or maybe even all of the 2020 restrictions. Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the latest updates on the mentally ill mass shooter in Maine. Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, philip van cleave, vcdl, virginia, 2023 elections This week, we're looking ahead at Virginia's off-year elections. Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) is halfway through his first term, and now the entire state legislature is up for election.

Republicans currently have a four-vote majority in the House of Delegates, while Democrats have a two-vote majority in the Senate. That's led to very little movement on gun policy since the Democrats lost their trifecta after passing universal background checks, a one-gun-a-month limit, a "red flag" law, local gun-free zones, and other restrictions in 2020.

The outcome of the election will either preserve the status quo or potentially lead to the repeal of at least some restrictions. That's why we have Virginia Citizen Defense League (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave on the show to tell us how his group sees things unfolding.

Van Cleave said VCDL is working to build enthusiasm among gun voters and get them out to the polls early. He admitted there was some concern about how motivated gun owners are in this election, in part because the threat of new gun-control laws is limited. Still, he believes gun-rights advocates should be able to pull out a win and pressure Republicans into repealing most or maybe even all of the 2020 restrictions.

Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the latest updates on the mentally ill mass shooter in Maine.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> This week, we're looking ahead at Virginia's off-year elections. Governor Glenn Youngkin (R.) is halfway through his first term, and now the entire state legislature is up for election.

Republicans currently have a four-vote majority in the House of Delegates, while Democrats have a two-vote majority in the Senate. That's led to very little movement on gun policy since the Democrats lost their trifecta after passing universal background checks, a one-gun-a-month limit, a "red flag" law, local gun-free zones, and other restrictions in 2020.

The outcome of the election will either preserve the status quo or potentially lead to the repeal of at least some restrictions. That's why we have Virginia Citizen Defense League (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave on the show to tell us how his group sees things unfolding.

Van Cleave said VCDL is working to build enthusiasm among gun voters and get them out to the polls early. He admitted there was some concern about how motivated gun owners are in this election, in part because the threat of new gun-control laws is limited. Still, he believes gun-rights advocates should be able to pull out a win and pressure Republicans into repealing most or maybe even all of the 2020 restrictions.

Plus, Contributing Writer Jake Fogleman and I discuss the latest updates on the mentally ill mass shooter in Maine.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> VCDL's Philip Van Cleave on the Upcoming Virginia Elections http://thereload.fireside.fm/philip-van-cleave-9-11-2021 3bdb9653-f2f2-4e9b-a93c-76410388c9bf Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:15:00 -0400 Stephen Gutowski full Stephen Gutowski VCDL President Philip Van Cleave talks with host Stephen Gutowski about the upcoming Virginia elections and the group's defamation suit against a gun-control group. Plus, the latest on how The Reload's reporting sunk President Biden's ATF nominee. 1:02:17 no On this episode, Virginia Citizen Defense League's (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave joins the show to discuss his group's defamation suit against the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV). He talks about why the group feels CSGV falsely labeling them a "domestic terror organization" is actionable and why VCDL believes it can reach the high bar to win a defamation case. He also discusses the upcoming elections in Virginia, what VCDL is doing to elect pro-gun candidates, and why they haven't endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Glenn Younkin. I also talk to contributing writer Jake Fogelman about President Biden's decision to withdraw his ATF nominee after a series of exclusive reports from The Reload uncovered his questionable background. Plus, I interview Reload Member John Mcadams about what got him into big game hunting and how the pandemic has driven new people to hunting. Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave. guns, gun politics, second amendment, 2nd amendment, gun news, stephen gutowski, vcdl, philip van cleave, david chipman, atf, virginia, joe biden On this episode, Virginia Citizen Defense League's (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave joins the show to discuss his group's defamation suit against the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV).

He talks about why the group feels CSGV falsely labeling them a "domestic terror organization" is actionable and why VCDL believes it can reach the high bar to win a defamation case. He also discusses the upcoming elections in Virginia, what VCDL is doing to elect pro-gun candidates, and why they haven't endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Glenn Younkin.

I also talk to contributing writer Jake Fogelman about President Biden's decision to withdraw his ATF nominee after a series of exclusive reports from The Reload uncovered his questionable background.

Plus, I interview Reload Member John Mcadams about what got him into big game hunting and how the pandemic has driven new people to hunting.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]> On this episode, Virginia Citizen Defense League's (VCDL) president Philip Van Cleave joins the show to discuss his group's defamation suit against the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV).

He talks about why the group feels CSGV falsely labeling them a "domestic terror organization" is actionable and why VCDL believes it can reach the high bar to win a defamation case. He also discusses the upcoming elections in Virginia, what VCDL is doing to elect pro-gun candidates, and why they haven't endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Glenn Younkin.

I also talk to contributing writer Jake Fogelman about President Biden's decision to withdraw his ATF nominee after a series of exclusive reports from The Reload uncovered his questionable background.

Plus, I interview Reload Member John Mcadams about what got him into big game hunting and how the pandemic has driven new people to hunting.

Special Guest: Philip Van Cleave.

]]>