Gun politics in the United States

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Gun politics in the United States is characterized by two primary opposing ideologies regarding private firearm ownership. Advocates of gun control support increasingly restrictive regulations on gun ownership, while proponents of gun rights oppose such restrictions and often support the liberalization of gun ownership. These groups typically differ in their interpretations of the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution, as well as in their views on the role of firearms in public safety, their impact on public health, and their relationship to crime rates at both national and state levels.^{[2][3][4]: 1–3 [5]}

Since the early 21st century, private firearm ownership in the United States has been steadily increasing, with a notable acceleration during and after 2020.^[6] According to the National Firearms Survey of 2021, the largest and most comprehensive study of U.S. firearm ownership, privately owned firearms are involved in approximately 1.7 million defensive use cases annually.^[7] The survey also indicates a rise in the diversity of firearm owners, with increased ownership rates among females and ethnic minorities compared to previous years.^[8][9]

U.S. gun politics is increasingly influenced by demographic factors and political party affiliation, with notable differences observed in gender, age, and income levels as reported by major social surveys.^[10][11]