Democrats fault Republicans planning to attend NRA convention days after shooting

Democrats expressed outrage this week at the prospect of Republicans heading to the National Rifle Association’s annual gathering in Houston just days after the horrific Uvalde school shooting. During a video call with reporters on Thursday, Rep. Colin Allred, D-Dallas, accused GOP politicians of pandering to their political base and gun lobbyists instead of focusing on crafting legislative solutions to gun violence. “I am so sickened to see so many Republicans — especially Texas Republicans after what’s happened here — carry on with their plans to attend the NRA convention in Houston this weekend,” Allred said. The NRA released a statement earlier this week expressing sympathies for the Uvalde victims and their families. “Although an investigation is underway and facts are still emerging, we recognize this was the act of a lone, deranged criminal,” the group said. “As we gather in Houston, we will reflect on these events, pray for the victims, recognize our patriotic members, and pledge to redouble our commitment to making our schools secure.”

The NRA posted a notice that the hall will be under the control of the Secret Service during the gathering’s leadership forum, which is set to feature a speech by former President Donald Trump. The Secret Service is prohibiting firearms, firearm accessories, ammunition, knives or other weapons in the hall during that time. Even toy guns are banned, according to the notice. Some Texas Republicans nixed their initial plans to attend, citing reasons that predated the Uvalde school shooting. That included Rep. Dan Crenshaw, R-Houston, who will be on a trip to Ukraine, and U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, who cited unspecified personal reasons for needing to be in Washington on Friday. Others, including U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, were still expected to speak. Cruz has said Democrats and members of the media attack the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens after shootings such as Uvalde. Allred said Democratic proposals are not about going after law-abiding citizens. “We’re talking about trying to keep weapons of war out of the hands of an 18-year-old so he doesn’t go into a classroom and kill 19 children and two teachers,” Allred said.