White House: Trump is in ‘listening phase’ on new gun laws

The White House said Thursday that President Trump and his administration are in a “listening phase” when deciding what action to take next for possible gun restrictions.

White House spokesman Raj Shah said Trump is currently speaking with family members, local officials and “many others” in deciding how to act next on firearms. The spokesman did not provide specifics on what kind of actions Trump could take.

He added that those conversations are “impacting some of his thinking,” referring to Trump.

{mosads}

“Right now we’re in a listening phase. There is a policy process, eventually there will be a legislative process,” Shah said.

One reporter then asked if Trump would be willing to act against the National Rifle Association (NRA), which has come out against any measures to set a minimum age for rifle purchases.

“He’s willing to do what’s right to ensure we have safe schools,” Shah said.

Shah’s briefing came shortly after Trump reiterated his support for arming some teachers in an effort to stop school shootings, suggesting that those who carry guns could receive bonuses.

The president has said he supports efforts to improve background checks for gun sales and ordered the Justice Department earlier this week to propose regulations banning bump stocks.

He has also come out in favor of an age limit for firearms that would bar people under 21 from purchasing guns. 

Trump said he believes the NRA will back new restrictions on guns, even as the organization has already opposed the proposed age minimum. Trump earned the group’s endorsement during the 2016 campaign.

“I don’t think I’ll be going up against them,” Trump said earlier Thursday.

“I think we’re making a lot of progress, and I can tell you there’s a tremendous feeling that we want to get something done,” he continued. “And we’re leading that feeling, I hope, but it is a great feeling, including at the NRA, including with Republican senators and hopefully Democrat senators and congressmen.”