“As we await more details about the senseless and heartbreaking tragedy in New York that left four innocent people— including a law enforcement officer—dead, we are once again met with the predictable and baseless calls from the gun control lobby for more bans, restrictions, and failed policies. From so-called ‘assault weapon’ bans to Red Flag laws and magazine limits, the anti-gun activists are wasting no time pushing their agenda.

“But here’s what we know: criminals—not inanimate objects—are responsible for death and destruction. Focusing on the tools instead of the individual is not just misguided, it’s dangerous.

“We must confront evil at its source and hold violent offenders accountable. At the same time, we must empower law-abiding Americans with the training and tools they need to protect themselves and others. Because when seconds count, you are your own first responder.”