May 22, 2013
UPDATE
WASHINGTON (AP) -- The National Rifle Association is breaking its silence four days after a school shooting in Newtown, Conn., where 26 were killed, including 20 children.
The nation's largest gun rights organization made its first public statements Tuesday after a self-imposed media blackout that left many wondering how it would respond to the killings. In its statement, the group said its members were, quoting, "shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders."
The group also said it wanted to give families time to mourn before making its first public statements. The organization pledged "to help to make sure this never happens again" and has scheduled a news conference for Friday.
STATEMENT:
The National Rifle Association of America is made up of four million moms and dads,
sons and daughters – and we were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the
horrific and senseless murders in Newtown.
Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time
for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.
The NRA is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help make sure this never
happens again.
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WASHINGTON (AP) -- The National Rifle Association, the nation's largest gun-rights group, has gone eerily silent after the deadly shooting of 26 people, including 20 children, at a Connecticut elementary school.
Its Facebook page has disappeared. It has not sent a message on Twitter since the extent of the carnage became clear. And no leaders of the 4.3 million-member organization appeared on the talk shows this past Sunday, two days after the shooting.
During past crises, the politically powerful group has defended gun owners' constitutional right to bear arms, which is popular among millions of Americans.
But with 20 of the victims ages 6 or 7, it may be tougher to advocate for gun owners' rights.
One Republican strategist says the NRA's approach is probably wise given the emotions involved.
