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