Buckeye Reporter

The reelection of President Donald Trump has influenced the landscape of federal funding for gun-related research. A recent article by The Trace highlighted concerns among anti-gun researchers regarding potential cuts to their funding sources. The article noted that these researchers, previously reliant on federal dollars, may now need to seek alternative funding avenues.

Garen Wintemute, a veteran in the field of gun control advocacy, expressed his apprehension about the future of federal funding. At a recent gathering, he remarked, "[T]hey have no idea what’s about to happen because they haven’t lived through it, but I have... and the federal funding is going to disappear." This sentiment aligns with The Trace's assertion that "researchers, physicians, and epidemiologists were stymied in their efforts to study gun violence as a public health issue," suggesting challenges in securing funds for their work.

The discussion also touched on past claims by Wintemute and others regarding restrictions on publishing gun-control research. Federal law has limited the use of government funds for promoting anti-gun propaganda; however, researchers have continued their work with private sector support from figures like Michael Bloomberg and George Soros.

The Trace acknowledged that federal funding under previous administrations supported "progressive policies" with specific political leanings. Many Americans are concerned about tax dollars being used to promote particular ideologies rather than addressing violent crime directly.

Research into firearm-related violent crime should focus on legitimate findings without bias. There is controversy when research aims to validate pre-existing anti-gun views. Concerns have also arisen over allegations involving Elon Musk and Trump's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) potentially misusing USAID funds for anti-gun advocacy groups.

Larry Keane from the National Shooting Sports Foundation recently addressed issues related to USAID funds being directed towards anti-gun organizations. As more information emerges, this situation continues to develop.

If changes in federal funding lead anti-gun advocates to reassess their strategies, some view this as a positive outcome supporting Second Amendment rights.