Buckeye Reporter

U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s recent declaration that “gun violence” constitutes a “public health crisis” has sparked significant controversy, with some critics alleging it is a politically motivated move in an election year.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) opposed Murthy's nomination and confirmation three years ago, citing his perceived bias towards gun control from his previous tenure under President Barack Obama. This concern has resurfaced as Murthy made his announcement just days before the first presidential debate and weeks before early voting for the November 5 presidential election.

“Today, for the first time in the history of our office, I am issuing a Surgeon General’s Advisory on firearm violence,” Murthy stated in a video announcement. “It outlines the urgent threat firearm violence poses to the health and well-being of our country.”

Murthy’s advisory includes calls for an evidence-based approach to public health change and bans on modern sporting rifles (MSRs) and standard-capacity magazines. The Associated Press reported that he also seeks to ban "automatic rifles," regulate the firearm industry, pass laws restricting their use in public spaces, and penalize those who fail to store weapons safely.

This stance contrasts sharply with Murthy's 2021 Senate confirmation hearing promise not to use his office as a platform for gun control advocacy. The Associated Press noted this apparent reversal.

Murthy's report includes claims that firearms are the leading cause of death among children—a point disputed by critics who argue data manipulation. They assert that including 18- and 19-year-olds skews statistics since they are legally adults. When focusing solely on those aged 17 and under, automotive accidents remain the leading cause of death.

NSSF argues that lawful gun ownership should not be conflated with criminal misuse of firearms, which they believe falls under law enforcement rather than public health. The organization collaborates with entities like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Veterans Affairs, and Defense Department to address firearm-related suicides separately from criminal activity.

Critics contend there is no medical solution for crime prevention, emphasizing that most criminals do not acquire firearms through legal channels. A Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics report indicated that "among prisoners who possessed a gun during their offense, 90% did not obtain it from a retail source."

Murthy's call to treat gun violence as a public health issue echoes past rhetoric from former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, who suggested changing public perceptions about guns similar to how attitudes toward smoking were altered over time.

Opponents view Murthy’s actions as part of broader efforts by gun control advocates to shift focus away from enforcing existing laws against criminals toward limiting Second Amendment rights.

Republished with permission from NSSF.

Become a member of Buckeye Firearms Association and support grassroots efforts to defend your rights!

---