When President Joe Biden was elected in November 2020, he made it clear that he would use the bully pulpit to push for gun laws and regulations at the national level. The concept of the bully pulpit, which was first used by former President Theodore Roosevelt, is the idea that the president has the power to use their office and the platform of the presidency to influence public opinion and shape policy.
Biden has already taken steps to use the bully pulpit to push for tighter gun control measures. In March 2021, he announced a package of executive actions that included measures to close loopholes in existing gun safety laws, as well as a ban on so-called ghost guns and a requirement that buyers of firearms be over 21.
The president has also used the bully pulpit to encourage the Senate to pass a bill that would close the Charleston loophole, which allows people to purchase guns without undergoing a background check. In addition, he has called on Congress to pass legislation that would extend background check requirements to all gun sales, including those conducted online and at gun shows.
The president has also used the bully pulpit to pressure states to pass their own gun control measures. In March 2021, he urged states to pass “red flag” laws that would allow family members or law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from people deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.
Biden has also used the bully pulpit to urge companies to take action on gun safety. In March 2021, he called on major companies, including Walmart and Dick’s Sporting Goods, to stop selling assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines.
The president has also used the bully pulpit to call on the public to take action against gun violence. He has urged Americans to contact their elected representatives and urge them to pass gun control measures, as well as organize rallies and marches to demand action.
The president’s use of the bully pulpit has had some success in pushing for gun control measures. Several states have passed new gun laws since Biden took office, and Congress is currently considering several bills related to gun control.
Still, the president’s use of the bully pulpit has faced some criticism. Some have argued that Biden should focus on other issues, such as the economy and health care, rather than gun control. Others have argued that the president’s rhetoric has been too aggressive and has alienated those who might otherwise be open to gun control measures.
Despite the criticism, Biden’s use of the bully pulpit has been effective in pushing for gun control measures. The president has used the bully pulpit to raise awareness of the issue and to put pressure on lawmakers to take action. Whether or not these efforts will result in meaningful gun control legislation remains to be seen.
