President Trump’s administration is rapidly dismantling Biden’s gun control framework, finally delivering Second Amendment protections Americans have waited years to see restored.
Quick Takes
- The Trump administration plans to eliminate Biden’s “zero tolerance” policy for firearm dealers who violate federal regulations.
- Attorney General Pam Bondi is leading efforts to roll back restrictions on pistol braces and mandatory background checks for private gun sales.
- Trump previously promised NRA members that “every single Biden attack on gun owners and manufacturers will be terminated my very first week back in office.”
- Gun control advocates are “doubling down” on efforts as Trump implements his pro-Second Amendment agenda.
- Legal experts note that while some changes can be immediate, complete reversal of Biden’s policies faces administrative and legal hurdles.
Trump Administration Moves Swiftly to Protect Gun Rights
The Biden administration’s aggressive gun control agenda is being systematically dismantled as President Trump fulfills his campaign promises to protect Second Amendment rights. Attorney General Pam Bondi is spearheading the effort to overturn several controversial restrictions, starting with the elimination of the “zero tolerance” approach toward firearm dealers. This policy had been criticized by gun rights advocates as unfairly targeting small business owners for minor administrative violations rather than focusing on actual criminal activity.
Critics of Biden’s policies have long argued that his administration focused on constraining law-abiding citizens while failing to address violent crime. The Trump Justice Department is now signaling a significant shift in priorities, returning to an enforcement approach that targets illegal weapons trafficking and violent criminals rather than creating bureaucratic hurdles for legitimate gun owners and dealers. Gun rights organizations have celebrated the move as a first step in restoring constitutional rights.
Pistol Braces and Background Checks Under Review
Beyond the “zero tolerance” policy, the Trump administration is reviewing additional Biden-era restrictions, including controversial rules on pistol braces and expanded background check requirements for private gun transactions. The pistol brace rule, which reclassified millions of firearms with stabilizing braces as short-barreled rifles requiring special registration, has been particularly contentious. Gun owners argued this arbitrary reclassification turned law-abiding citizens into potential felons overnight.
“Every single Biden attack on gun owners and manufacturers will be terminated my very first week back in office,” Trump promised during his campaign, according to an analysis by The Reload examining how Trump could undo Biden’s gun policies.
Legal experts note that while some changes can be implemented quickly through executive action, completely undoing Biden’s regulatory framework may take time. According to a Congressional Research Service report cited by The Reload, “The APA’s rulemaking requirements generally apply to the repeal and amendment of rules, as well as to their initial issuance,” meaning the Trump administration must follow proper administrative procedures to ensure reforms withstand legal challenges.
Gun Control Groups Mobilize in Opposition
As anticipated, progressive gun control organizations are expressing alarm at the Trump administration’s actions. These groups, which enjoyed unprecedented access and influence during Biden’s term, are now pivoting to obstruction tactics. Kris Brown, who leads a prominent gun control advocacy group, has openly declared plans to intensify their efforts despite the clear mandate from voters who elected Trump with his pro-Second Amendment platform clearly stated.
“The election of Donald Trump is deeply troubling for our safety and freedom from gun violence, and that’s why we are doubling down on our work and fighting harder than ever,” said Kris Brown, president of a gun control advocacy organization.
This resistance comes despite the fact that Biden-era gun control measures failed to demonstrate effectiveness in reducing violent crime. In fact, many jurisdictions with the strictest gun control laws continue to experience high rates of gun violence, highlighting the flawed premise behind these restrictions. The Trump administration appears committed to restoring balance by focusing on prosecuting criminals rather than restricting constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens.
Potential ATF Leadership Changes
Also under consideration is a significant reorganization of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Sources familiar with the matter indicate that President Trump may replace current ATF Director Steve Dettelbach as part of broader efforts to refocus the agency on its core mission. Under Biden, the ATF was frequently criticized for overreaching enforcement actions and implementing policies that appeared designed to discourage gun ownership rather than combat illegal firearms trafficking.
“During my four years, nothing happened. And there was great pressure on me having to do with guns. We did nothing. We didn’t yield,” Trump stated at a campaign event, emphasizing his commitment to protecting Second Amendment rights despite political pressure.
The Trump administration’s actions reflect a fundamental shift in philosophy regarding gun policy in America. Rather than treating gun ownership as a problem to be solved through increasing restrictions, the new approach recognizes the constitutional right to bear arms while focusing enforcement efforts on illegal weapons and those who use firearms in the commission of violent crimes. This balanced approach aligns with Trump’s consistent defense of Second Amendment rights.
