2024's Forgotten Political Battles

In the last few weeks before a presidential election, there is no shortage of political media being generated, but most of it is being focused entirely on the White House. There’s a lot to follow with both candidates, but it’s important not to lose sight of the other races and issues.

For example, not only are there local elections this year, most of which will have a great impact on you personally, and are under more of your direct control and influence, but there are also court cases.

The Supreme Court is back in session, and last week they heard oral arguments on the Garland v. VanDerStok case. This is a very important issue that addresses the ATF's rule change regarding the definitions of frames and receivers and what actually makes something a firearm, which has major implications for the firearm industry. It has already driven Polymer80 out of business, threatens the murder of other manufacturers, and further muddies the waters on what gun parts can be sold over the internet.

Last month, we made a video describing the issues with the ATF’s alteration of the rules and talked about some of the amicus briefs that have been filed by not only the defendants, and not only firearm rights organizations, but also other manufacturers. The firearm industry as a whole is getting more and more involved in supporting these cases and standing up for our rights, and that’s a big step forward.

Last week, Peter Patterson, the attorney representing the case, did an excellent job bringing a defense before the nine Supreme Court Justices and answering their questions. Unfortunately, the court seemed split in its discussion over kits and parts, and less favorable to striking down the ATF’s receiver rule than they were about revoking the Pistol Brace Ban.

We don’t expect their ruling until sometime next year, but now most of their analysis will rest on those multiple amicus briefs filed by members of the larger gun community.

So, as you remain inundated by constant information about presidential politics, don’t lose sight of the other issues and jurisdictions. Research your local candidates and know what’s happening in your state and county. And, as always, there are countless legal fights that you can contribute to by supporting companies who are active in those battles.

In other news, Isaac Botkin will be speaking at the business event at the Prodigal America Conference in Dallas on October 31st.

Our favorite statistics blog, Handwaving Freakoutery, discussed the recent White House Executive Order about guns, and fact-checked their claims.