50 Days Out from The Election, Guns Pose Major Threat to Civic Participation

September 16, 2024

Following the International Day of Democracy, Guns Down America calls out the growing threat of gun violence to American democracy and civil society

WASHINGTON — Following an apparent shooting targeting the former President of the United States on the International Day of Democracy, Guns Down America Executive Director Hudson Munoz released the following statement:

“Guns undermine democracy and civic participation—full stop. Showing up with a gun is an unacceptable alternative to advancing democracy through talking and listening. Democracy happens in public, and in recent years, guns have been used to intimidate voters and election workers and in recent days and months as assassination attempts against the former President. All Americans should be free from the threats of gun violence—our children and former presidents alike. This is not normal. Ahead of November’s election, we’re calling on everyone to talk to your friends and family about political strife and fear and to reject guns in public spaces. It’s critical that all voters can access their polling places and take part in our democracy without the threat of intimidation.”

Learn more about Guns Down America’s previous Guns Down at the Polls campaign to ensure everyone’s safety to exercise their right to vote.