New Poll Finds 54% of Americans Support Stricter Gun Laws
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But more Democrats want tougher restrictions than Republicans, with independents split on the issue, according to a Quinnipiac University survey.
More than half of Americans approve of stricter gun legislation, according to the latest poll released by Quinnipiac University.
The support varies when broken down by political party, though. Democrats surveyed weighed heavily in support (91%) and Republicans a little less so (74%). Independents, however, were more split -- 51% in favor and 44% opposed.
The poll comes amidst a number of mass shootings in America, including one Thursday at an Indianapolis FedEx facility that left eight people dead and others injured. Quinnipiac reports there were 45% percent of people surveyed who believe there is a gun crisis in the country. With debate happening in Congress and state legislatures, gun laws remain one of the most discussed and heated topics.
"There are mixed feelings on whether gun violence has reached a true crisis point, but a clear consensus on reporting 'the threat next door' before it is too late," said Quinnipiac University polling analyst Tim Malloy in a statement.
When it comes to specific measures, Americans are generally in agreement. In regards to background checks, 89% of those surveyed approve. And approval for “red flag” laws, which permit police or family members to petition a state court to order temporary remove firearms from a person who may present a danger to others or themselves, was 74%.
As far as assault weapons sales, half of those Quinnipiac surveyed agreed there should be a nationwide ban. Also, 51% support a ban on the sale of high-capacity ammunition magazines that hold more than 10 bullets.
Finally, gun manufacturers did not get a pass when it came to those polled. Only 49% opposed repealing a law giving them broad immunity from being sued by victims of gun violence and their relatives.
Results from this poll are based on answers from 1,237 U.S. adults surveyed nationwide in April.To see a more detailed breakdown of the poll see here..
Brent Woodie is an associate editor at Route Fifty.
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