DC Attorney Pirro Walks Back Threat to Arrest Gun Owners After GOP Backlash
Less than 24 hours after threatening jail for anyone carrying firearms in the capital, the Trump appointee claims she supports Second Amendment
The former Fox News host sparked outrage during a Monday television appearance when she declared: "I dont care if you have a license in another district, and I dont care if youre a law-abiding gun owner somewhere else — you bring a gun into this district, count on going to jail."
The statement drew immediate condemnation from the National Association for Gun Rights and GOP members of Congress, who pointed out the apparent contradiction between her stance and the Trump administrations pro-gun platform.
Less than 24 hours later, Pirro attempted damage control via social media, posting that she is "a proud supporter of the Second Amendment" and clarifying that D.C. law requires handguns to be licensed with the Metropolitan Police Department.
"We are focused on individuals who are unlawfully carrying guns," she wrote, walking back her blanket threat against licensed carriers from other jurisdictions.
The incident is the latest in a series of statements from Trump administration officials that have created friction with the partys pro-Second Amendment base.
Analysis
Why This Matters
The episode exposes tensions between law enforcement priorities in the nations capital and the gun rights positions that helped elect Trump. Pirros initial comments suggested a zero-tolerance approach that would criminalize legal gun owners simply for crossing into D.C.
Background
Washington D.C. has some of the strictest gun laws in the country, requiring separate registration even for firearms legally owned in neighboring states. This has long been a point of contention for Second Amendment advocates who argue it infringes on constitutional rights.
Key Perspectives
Gun rights groups argue that law-abiding citizens shouldnt face arrest for exercising constitutional rights. Law enforcement counters that D.C.s unique security situation — as home to the federal government — requires stricter controls.
What to Watch
Whether this flap leads to policy changes or further statements from the administration attempting to clarify the balance between D.C. gun laws and Second Amendment principles.