The National Rifle Association is firing up a campaign to oppose new gun control proposals.

It comes as Vice President Joe Biden heads to Connecticut to push for sweeping gun control measures.

The NRA took out newspaper ads in five key states -- Arkansas, Louisiana, Maine, North Carolina and West Virginia. Those states are home to several Democratic incumbent senators who are expected to face tough re-election fights.

The gun control debate kicked into high gear after the deadly shooting at a Connecticut elementary school.

Since then, membership in the NRA has risen to record levels.