State of Texas Archives: on Gun Control
Jasmine Crockett:
Oppose concealed carry without training or permit
Summary by Texas Tribune: The new Texas gun law allows anyone 21 years or older to carry a handgun in public without need for a permit or training as long as they aren't otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm by law, such as people
with felony or domestic violence convictions. Before Sept. 1, Texans were mostly required to be licensed to carry handguns. To attain a license, applicants were required to submit fingerprints, complete four to six hours of training, and pass a written
exam and shooting proficiency test.The founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, repeatedly pointed out that despite arguments from [legislative sponsors] that more guns make a safer Texas, gun violence has increased year over year, [saying]
"Why does Texas still have high gun violence, yet they have a higher rate of gun ownership?"
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 82-62-2 on May/23/21; Rep. Crockett voted NO; passed Senate on May/24/21; signed by Governor Jun/16/21
Source: Texas Tribune on TX State Legislature voting records HB1927
May 31, 2021
Greg Abbott:
Support concealed carry without training or permit
Summary by Texas Tribune: The new Texas gun law allows anyone 21 years or older to carry a handgun in public without need for a permit or training as long as they aren't otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm by law, such as people
with felony or domestic violence convictions. Before Sept. 1, Texans were mostly required to be licensed to carry handguns. To attain a license, applicants were required to submit fingerprints, complete four to six hours of training, and pass a written
exam and shooting proficiency test.The founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, repeatedly pointed out that despite arguments from [legislative sponsors] that more guns make a safer Texas, gun violence has increased year over year,
[saying] "Why does Texas still have high gun violence, yet they have a higher rate of gun ownership?"
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 82-62-2 on May/23/21; passed Senate on May/24/21; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/16/21
Source: Texas Tribune on TX State Legislature voting records HB1927
Jun 16, 2021
Allen West:
Supports permitless concealed carry of handguns
West accused Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, a Republican and staunch gun rights advocate, of blocking legislation to allow people over 21 to carry a handgun without a permit. Patrick fired back saying that despite "just plain lies from outside agitators"
the bill was on its way to a vote. Still West persisted, accusing Patrick of adding poison pills to the legislation. Patrick's political team said that wasn't true, and the measure was later passed by the Legislature and signed by Abbott.
Source: Houston Chronicle on 2022 Texas Gubernatorial race
Jul 6, 2021
Andrew White:
Not anti-gun but we need universal background checks
I support the 2nd Amendment. I'm not anti-gun. The terrible events we see on the news should make you wonder how we got here. A tight primary race creates a competition to see which politician can be more "Pro-Gun". The gun lobby birthed its
own "litmus" test: you're either pro-gun or anti-gun. I bet most of us are somewhere in between. We need a universal background check law that requires ALL gun buyers, regardless of where they buy the gun, to have a simple background check performed.
Source: 2018 Texas Gubernatorial campaign website AndrewWhite.com
Feb 22, 2018
August Pfluger:
Second amendment protects us against government tyranny
Pfluger told Texas Scorecard that he was against the ban on bump stocks, saying things like this would lead to a "slippery slope" that infringes on constitutional rights. Pfluger also said he is against "red-flag" law types of legislation. "I own
weapons. And yes, I use them for hunting, but that's not why we have the Second Amendment--we have it to protect ourselves against government tyranny."
Source: Texas Scorecard on 2020 Congressional TX-11 election
Feb 20, 2020
Beto O`Rourke:
Universal background checks; ban assault weapons
Q: Support more restrictive gun control legislation?Ted Cruz (R): No. Led fight not to ban assault weapons.
Calls gun control efforts "tiresome."
Beto O'Rourke (D): Yes. Supports universal background checks & banning assault-style weapons.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Texas Senate race
Oct 9, 2018
Beto O`Rourke:
Supports common sense gun laws
I think closing all background check loopholes would be a great place to start. That is universally popular in this country. It makes so much obvious sense that it's hard to believe Congress has been unable to act on that.
That goes to show you the power of the NRA. I would like to see the Centers for Disease Control have the ability to study gun violence, which they are prohibited from doing today.That again shows Congress' capture by a narrow interest group.
Source: El Paso Inc. on 2018 Texas Senate race
Jul 18, 2016
Beto O`Rourke:
We don't want extremism in our gun laws
I have been listening to my fellow Texans who are concerned about this idea of permitless carry that Greg Abbott has signed into law, which allows any Texan to carry a loaded firearm, despite the pleadings of police chiefs and law enforcement from
across the state, who said it would make their jobs more dangerous. We don't want extremism in our gun laws. We want to protect the Second Amendment. We want to protect the lives of our fellow Texans.
Source: CNN SOTU 2021 interview of Texas Gubernatorial Candidate
Nov 21, 2021
Brian Babin:
Rock-solid defender of the 2nd Amendment
2nd Amendment: I am a rock solid defender of the 2nd Amendment, a
30 year member of the NRA, and was endorsed by the NRA in my 1996 congressional race.
Source: 2014 Texas 36th House campaign website BabinForCongress.com
Aug 31, 2014
Chad Prather:
Make Texas a constitutional carry state
Texas Rights: 4 pragmatic policies to ensure Texans' rights:- Defend the right to life by signing pro-life legislation into law.
- Work to make Texas a constitutional carry state [permitless concealed carry of guns].
-
Stand up for law-abiding Texans by defending their Second Amendment rights.
- Defend First Amendment speech rights against those in academia, media and politics who seek to silence conservatives.
Source: 2021 Texas Gubernatorial campaign website Prather2022.com
Jun 1, 2021
Chris Bell:
Universal background checks; buyback assault weapons
The Democratic candidates for Senate agreed on the need for legislation to end gun violence but differed on whether such laws were possible in a Republican-controlled chamber."Nothing is going to get done," said former U.S. Rep.
Chris Bell, who said he supports universal background checks and a buyback program for assault weapons. "It speaks to how broken our democracy is. Until you elect more independently minded people, nothing is going to change."
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate debate
Sep 5, 2019
Chris Bell:
Ban assault weapons, with mandatory buyback
The Democratic candidates for Senate agreed on the need for legislation to end gun violence but differed on whether such laws were possible in a Republican-controlled chamber."Nothing is going to get done," said former U.S. Rep.
Chris Bell, who said he supports universal background checks and a buyback program for assault weapons. "It speaks to how broken our democracy is. Until you elect more independently minded people, nothing is going to change."
"Military-style semiautomatic assault weapons have no place in our homes, within our neighborhoods or on our city streets," he said. "I am in 100% agreement with
Beto O'Rourke that a ban and buyback program for assault weapons is needed for lasting results that will keep Texas families and communities safer."
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate debate
Sep 5, 2019
Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez:
Ban assault weapons, with mandatory buyback
MJ Hegar's rivals pounced after she rejected Beto O'Rourke's call for mandatory buybacks of assault weapons--reflecting a major fault line in the field of Democrats angling to take down Sen. John Cornyn next year.Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez rejected
Hegar's stance. "Without a mandatory buyback program, we're leaving weapons of war in our communities. That's a recipe for violence," she argued on Twitter. "Our children's lives are on the line. This isn't a time for political caution."
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate race
Aug 12, 2019
Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez:
We all want background checks & ban on weapons of war
MJ Hegar's rivals pounced after she rejected Beto O'Rourke's call for mandatory buybacks of assault weapons--reflecting a major fault line in the field of Democrats angling to take down Sen. John Cornyn next year.Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez rejected
Hegar's stance. "Without a mandatory buyback program, we're leaving weapons of war in our communities. That's a recipe for violence," she argued on Twitter. "Our children's lives are on the line. This isn't a time for political caution."
campaign, noting that her 2-year-old son is at risk. "The most harrowing place I will ever take him is his kindergarten classroom," she said.
"These policies are not controversial," Tzintzun Ramirez said of universal background checks and a ban on
weapons of war. "We do not have elected officials that are willing to enact the will of the majority of Americans. If we do not have elected officials that are willing to actually represent the will of the American people, then we elect people that do."
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate debate
Sep 5, 2019
Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez:
Advocates for gun legislation majority of Americans support
Cristina believes our representatives should fight for victims of gun violence and their families, and Texans that are demanding change, and not the NRA. Cristina has endorsed the Peace Plan for a Safer America. Cristina will advocate for
gun legislation that the majority of Americans support, including universal background checks, banning and buying back assault weapons like AR-15s and AK-47s, and holding the gun lobby accountable for the harm they have done to our communities.
Source: 2020 Texas Senate campaign website CristinaForTexas.com
Dec 19, 2019
Cristina Tzintzun Ramirez:
Ban assault style weapons, pass background checks
When it comes to gun control, TzintzŁn Ramirez said she was the best shot in her family growing up and supports protecting the second amendment, but she said she also supports mandatory gun buybacks. "I've been waiting my entire adult life to see
Congress do very basic things like pass universal background checks, banning assault style weapons and instead we've been teaching a generation of young people to play dead in their classrooms," TzintzŁn Ramirez said.
Source: KXAN-TV NBC on 2020 Texas Senate race
Nov 10, 2019
Don Huffines:
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; State Sen. Huffines voted YES; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Emily Sanchez:
Opposes an absolute right to gun ownership
Q: Do you support or oppose an absolute right to gun ownership?
A: Oppose.
Source: E-mail interview on Texas 2014 Senate race with OnTheIssues
Sep 19, 2014
George W. Bush:
Arrest for guns in school; track juvenile offenders
Bush's 1999 legislative record included:- Required automatic detention [until released by a judge's order] for juveniles who carry firearms illegally or commit crimes with a gun.
- Expanded beds for housing violent juvenile offenders.
- Created a
spotlight program to team police with probation officers to track violent juvenile offenders.
Source: GeorgeWBush.com/News/ "1999 Texas Legislative Record"
Jun 25, 1999
George W. Bush:
1995: Concealed carry doesn't make TX more dangerous
In 1995, the governor responded to the concealed handgun legislation: "I wouldn't be signing it if I thought it made Texas a more dangerous place." Indeed, a little more than a week after the House passed the concealed weapons proposal, the governor
signed the bill into law, tossing out a ban on carrying weapons that was adopted by another Republican governor, E.J. Davis, 125 years earlier during a meeting of the post-Civil War Legislature."Today we signed a bill that gives
Texans who feel the need to carry a weapon to protect themselves the right to do so," the governor announced at the signing ceremony, "assuming they are properly licensed and trained to do so."
The law required citizens who were
21 or older, with no criminal histories, mental illness, or substance abuse problems to undergo 10 to 15 hours of training and pass a proficiency exam before receiving a 14 year permit (which cost $140) from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Source: Fortunate Son(Hatfield)p.156; 1995 Texas Voting Record SB 60
Aug 17, 1999
Greg Abbott:
Individual right to keep and bear arms was settled in 1791
Greg Abbott believes the right to keep and bear arms was settled in 1791 when the 2nd Amendment was adopted to the U.S. Constitution. On behalf of 31 states, Attorney General Abbott championed a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision (District of
Columbia v. Heller) that struck down a handgun ban and protected an individual's right to bear arms.Greg Abbott continues to protect 2nd Amendment rights by preparing to challenge potential federal laws that limit gun rights.
He was also one of the first Attorneys General in America to challenge the Obama Administration's efforts to use the United Nations to regulate guns in the United States.
As an avid hunter and member of the Texas State Rifle Association and National Rifle Association, Greg Abbott will continue to fight any federal government overreach that aims to disrupt the 2nd Amendment rights of law-abiding Texans.
Source: 2014 Texas Gubernatorial campaign website, GregAbbott.com
Nov 4, 2014
Greg Abbott:
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
Jun 13, 2015
Greg Abbott:
Texas must be a Second Amendment Sanctuary State
Second Amendment rights are also under attack. Politicians from the federal level to the local level have shouted: "Heck yes, the government is coming to get your guns." We won't let that happen in Texas. Last session, I signed ten laws to
protect gun rights in Texas. This session we need to erect a complete barrier against any government office anywhere from treading on gun rights in Texas. Texas must be a Second Amendment Sanctuary State.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Texas legislature
Feb 2, 2021
Jake Ellzey:
Opposes all federal regulations on the right to bear arms
I'm a lifetime member of the NRA. I spent 20 years serving our nation abroad to keep American families safe and the last thing I want is for them to be defenseless at home. The new administration and their leftist allies have already shown themselves to
be radically anti-gun. The way to stop crime is NOT by taking away your right to protect yourself. I oppose any and all federal regulations on the right to keep and bear arms. I will be a relentless and unapologetic defender of our 2nd Amendment.
Source: 2021 TX-6 House campaign website EllzeyForTexas.com
Jul 30, 2021
Jodey Arrington:
Second Amendment is about individual right to bear arms
I Believe in the Right to Bear Arms: Liberals often use tragedies to confiscate or regulate our firearms and demonize gun ownership.
The Second Amendment is clear: your individual right to bear arms "shall not be infringed" upon by the federal government. I will ensure it stays that way.
Source: 2016 Texas House campaign website JodeyArrington.com
Nov 8, 2016
John Cornyn:
Focus on mental illness, not on background checks
Q: The Sandy Hook [shooting tragedy] families are focused on tougher gun control, specifically the background check.CORNYN: Adam Lanza stole his mother's guns. A background check wouldn't have stopped that incident.
A background should have stopped James Holmes in Tucson. It should have stopped the Virginia Tech shooter because their background check information about his adjudicated mental illness was not forwarded to the FBI's background check.
In other words, I think the mental illness issue is the common element that we ought to be focused on. But I'm not for symbolism over substance. I think we can't just pat ourselves on the back and say we're passing enhanced penalties
for trafficking or other issues or background checks when they don't really go and solve the problems that caused these terrible tragedies.
Source: Fox News Sunday 2013, on 2014 Texas Senate race
Apr 14, 2013
Jon Roland:
Restore militia system--everyone trained in proper gun use
Roland supports the following principles regarding Gun Issues:- Allow individuals to carry concealed guns.
- Eliminate enforcement of existing restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
-
Eliminate restrictions on the purchase and possession of guns.
- Roland adds, "Restore constitutional militia system in which everyone is trained in proper use and assigned regular duties in defense + law enforcement."
Source: Texas Congressional Election 2008 Political Courage Test
May 2, 2008
Lupe Valdez:
For common sense gun control measures; keep community safe
I am in support of common sense measures that can keep our children and communities safer. We must push for universal background checks, making it a state offense to lie on a background check, and closing loopholes so domestic abusers can't have
access to a weapon. We should enact, not simply study "Red Flag" laws, so that law enforcement and families can flag someone who may pose an immediate danger to themselves or others for their access to firearms to be temporarily limited.
Source: 2018 Texas Gubernatorial campaign website LupeValdez.com
Oct 9, 2018
MJ Hegar:
Ban assault weapons, but no mandatory buyback
Like many Democrats, Hegar supports a ban on sales of AR-15s, AK-47s and similar assault-style weapons. That was the stance Beto O'Rourke took last year when he tried to unseat Sen. Ted Cruz, and which he stuck with for months as a presidential contender
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate race
Oct 30, 2019
MJ Hegar:
For background checks, red flag laws; end open carry
We must pass common-sense gun safety legislation to require background checks on every gun sale, including closing the gun show loophole. We must stop the sale of assault weapons to the public, pass red flag laws, and fully fund the CDC to
reverse the ban on gun violence research.I am also calling for state and local officials to end open carry. The reasons gun owners like me have for wanting to protect our Second Amendment rights are not served by open carry.
Source: 2020 Texas Senate campaign website MJforTexas.com
Jan 20, 2020
MJ Hegar:
Endorsed by Everytown for Gun Safety for gun-sense majority
Everytown for Gun Safety threw its support behind 11 Democratic Senate candidates including MJ Hegar in Texas. "Everytown is going all-in to flip the Senate and elect leaders who will treat America's gun violence epidemic
like the crisis it is," the Everytown President said. The group has targeted a number of key races in the House and Senate, emphasizing the need to protect what it calls a "gun sense majority," which is mostly comprised of Democratic candidates.
Source: The Hill e-zine on 2020 Texas Senate endorsements
Jun 9, 2020
MJ Hegar:
Supports policies that are pragmatic & enforceable
Hegar said she would not "pander to one side or another" on the issue of firearm-related deaths, but will only support policies that she thinks will "move the needle on gun violence"
and will be "pragmatic" and "enforceable." She said that universal background checks would be more effective than confiscation.
Source: The Texan on 2020 Texas Senate race
Jun 8, 2020
MJ Hegar:
Eager to finally put an end to senseless gun violence
As a gun violence survivor, mom of two young boys, and responsible gun owner, this is personal to me. Enough is enough. We must pass common-sense gun safety legislation to require background checks on every single gun sale, including closing the gun
show loophole--a proposal that the majority of Texans support. We must pass red flag laws limiting access to firearms for domestic abusers--including closing the "boyfriend loophole." We must fully fund the CDC to reverse the damage of the decades-long
ban on gun violence research. We must stop selling assault rifles that were intended for war. We must call on state and local officials to end open carry. We can enact these policies if we make our voices heard. I am proud to be endorsed
by gun safety groups like Giffords and the Brady PAC, and I'm eager to join these front line organizations to finally put an end to senseless gun violence.
Source: The Yale Politic e-zine on 2020 Texas Senate race
Apr 2, 2020
MJ Hegar:
Reverse ban on gun violence research by CDC
I will use my perspective as a mother, responsible gun owner and combat veteran in my work to pass urgently needed legislation to protect our communities, including passing commonsense gun safety legislation to require background checks on every single
gun sale, fully funding the CDC [Centers for Disease Control] to reverse the damage of the decades long ban on gun violence research, stopping the sale of weapons of war like assault rifles, and ending open carry.
Source: The Texas Tribune on 2020 Texas Senate race
Feb 12, 2020
Paul Sadler:
Maintain existing restrictions on firearms
Sadler supports the following principles concerning gun issues. -
Maintain state restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms.
Source: Texas State 1998 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 1998
Republican Party:
No red flag laws; no waiting periods; no age-21 limits
Resolution against the Gang of 20 Gun Control bill: - Whereas those under 21 are most likely to be victims of violent crime and thus most likely to need to defend themselves.
- Whereas "red flag laws" violate one's right to due process and are a
pre-crime punishment of people not adjudicated guilty.
- Whereas waiting periods on gun purchases harm those who need to acquire the means of self defense in emergencies such as riots.
-
Whereas all gun control is a violation of the Second Amendment and our God given rights.
- We reject the so called "bipartisan gun agreement", and we rebuke
Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), Mitt Romney (R-Utah) and Pat Toomey (R-Pa.)
Source: Texas Republican Party: Final Report from Platform Committee
Jun 16, 2022
Rick Perry:
Welcomes NRA with a video of him using semi-automatic rifle
The Texas House approved a batch of bills to further soften gun laws that were already among the country's most firearms-friendly, allowing college students to carry handguns in class, and exempting the state from any future federal bans on assault
rifles, high-capacity magazines or universal background checks.Dubbed "gun day" by supporters and opponents alike, the parade of votes came as thousands of members of the National Rifle Association attended the group's annual convention in Houston.
Gov. Rick Perry welcomed convention attendees with a video of him taking target practice using a semi-automatic rifle.
The 12 approved gun bills must all clear final, procedural votes before heading to the state Senate. A Democratic parliamentary
point of order managed to shoot down just one, a bill that would have allowed the use of a concealed handgun license as valid proof of identity--even though obtaining such licenses requires a background check that's not necessary to get driver licenses.
Source: USA Today on Texas "Gun Day" voting record
May 4, 2013
Ron Paul:
Opposes the DC Gun Ban; it's not just a "collective right"
An appeals court in Washington DC issued a ruling that hopefully will result in the restoration of 2nd Amendment rights in the nation's capital. It appears the Court rejected the DC's nonsensical argument that the 2nd Amendment confers only a "collective
right," something gun control advocates have asserted for years. Rights, by definition, are individual. "Group rights" is an oxymoron. When the 2nd Amendment speaks of a "well-regulated militia," it means local groups of individuals operating to
protect their own families, homes, and communities. They regulated themselves because it was necessary and in their own interest to do so. The Founders themselves wrote in the Federalist papers about the need for individuals to be armed.
Gun control
makes people demonstrably less safe--as any honest examination of criminal statistics reveals. It is no coincidence that violent crime flourishes in the nation's capital, where the individual's right to self-defense has been most severely curtailed.
Source: Weekly column, "Texas Straight Talk"
Mar 12, 2007
Ronny Jackson:
Supports gun ownership and public carry
I will defend our right to keep and bear arms. I believe that law abiding citizens of this country should be able to have guns in their homes and carry them in public.
I am a member of the NRA and have been a gun owner my entire life. I will work to ensure that no one can take away or limit our ability to defend ourselves or our constitutional right to our guns.
Source: 2020 TX-13 House campaign website RonnyJacksonForTexas13.com
Jul 27, 2020
Royce West:
We can legislate on guns when we turn Texas blue
Dallas said it was possible to work with Republicans on gun violence issues, saying that "he's not tired yet," when it comes to legislative maneuvering. He said beating incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn and turning Texas blue would help speed the
process."That is a perspective. That's not my perspective," West said after Bell's remarks. "My perspective is that we can get this done. We must get this done, when we turn Texas blue, I assure you that we will be able to get something done."
Source: Dallas Morning News on 2020 Texas Senate debate
Sep 5, 2019
Royce West:
We must regulate deadly weapons
My position on gun reform has been clear for over 30 years. In the 1990's I authored bills on both universal background checks and an assault weapons ban. Since the 90's, I have remained consistent in my unwavering belief that we must regulate
deadly weapons. I support universal background checks, banning weapons of war, red flag laws, and limiting magazine capacity. We need brave legislators in Washington to take on the NRA.
Source: 2020 Texas Senate campaign website RoyceWest.com
Dec 19, 2019
Royce West:
Oppose open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; Sen. West voted NO; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Sema Hernandez:
Use Commerce Clause to regulate gun sales & manufacturing
I will utilize the Commerce Clause to regulate gun sales and manufacturing. I will introduce and/or support legislation which will require mandatory universal background checks, close gun show loopholes, outlaw the sale of assault weapons, end the
manufacturing of ammunition for assault weapons, and protect the rights of gun owners, while offering voluntary buy-backs. There is no legal or rational reason not to require registration of guns in the event a crime is committed with the weapon.
Source: 2020 Texas Senate campaign website, Sema4Texas.com
Jan 12, 2020
Steve Stockman:
Consider impeachment for Obama's unilateral gun controls
Back in January, Stockman considered pursuing impeachment charges if President Obama implemented gun-control measures without congressional approval. Stockman called such executive action "an existential threat to this nation," because, "Under no
circumstances whatsoever may the government take any action that disarms any peaceable person--much less without due process through an executive declaration without a vote of Congress or a ruling of a court." President Obama did enact a series of
relatively minor gun-control measures by executive order, after losing a fight in the Senate to expand background checks on gun purchases.Stockman noted, "Impeachment is one of the many options, including lawsuits and other actions, we can take to
defend the Constitution." Stockman said he has attorneys investigating whether the president has violated the Constitution, and, if so, then it would be time to consider that step. "But it's the last resort, and it's a very serious step," he cautioned.
Source: World Net Daily on 2014 Texas Senate race
Sep 18, 2013
Steve Stockman:
AR-15 giveaway: the perfect Mother's Day gift
Stockman's famously incendiary tweets are enjoying increased scrutiny. Here's a sampling:- The time Stockman gave away an AR-15 gun to a Twitter follower: "Want to give Mom the perfect Mother's Day gift? Win her a FREE AR-15!
I'm giving one away!"
- His campaign bumper sticker (April 11, 2013): "Our campaign bumper sticker: If babies had guns, they wouldn't be aborted."
Source: MSNBC AdWatch, "Twitter posts", on 2014 Texas Senate race
Dec 10, 2013
Steve Stockman:
The best gun lubricant around is Liberal Tears
Rep. Steve Stockman--a Republican primary challenger to Sen. John Cornyn of Texas--might be the closest thing in this election year to a middle finger running for the US Senate by itself:- "If babies had guns they wouldn't be aborted," says a
Stockman campaign bumper sticker.
- "The best gun lubricant around," read a posting on Stockman's campaign Twitter feed. It was accompanied by a photo of an assault rifle and a spray can marked "Liberal Tears."
- "For every gift of $10 you make
right now," Stockman promised on his Web site, "I'll send you one of my Obama Barf Bags."
Stockman seems to be betting--again--on his talents for nation-scale insult comedy, for grabbing free publicity with over-the-top attacks
on the hard right's enemies. He holds a place in the Hill's modern lore as an innovator in the art of shock politics. Stockman has now been the wild-man newcomer of two different House classes, 18 years apart.
Source: Washington Post on 2014 Texas Senate race
Jan 4, 2014
Steve Stockman:
1993: Opposed federal raid on the Branch Davidian compound
In his first stint in Congress in 1994, Stockman became infamous for his conspiracy theories about gun control. He contended, for instance, that the 1993 federal raid on the
Branch Davidian compound in Texas was staged by the Clinton administration as a political gesture to bolster the case for an assault-weapons ban.
Source: Washington Post on 2014 Texas Senate race
Jan 4, 2014
Sylvia Garcia:
Oppose open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; Sen. Garcia voted NO; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Ted Cruz:
Led fight not to ban assault weapons
Q: Support more restrictive gun control legislation?Ted Cruz (R): No. Led fight not to ban assault weapons.
Calls gun control efforts "tiresome."
Beto O'Rourke (D): Yes. Supports universal background checks & banning assault-style weapons.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Texas Senate race
Oct 9, 2018
Ted Cruz:
Purpose of Second Amendment is protection against tyranny
[Former Congressman and radio talk-show host] Joe Walsh took to Twitter [prior to the 2016 election] to announce his post-election day plans. "On November 9th," he wrote, "if Trump loses, I'm grabbing my musket. You in?"It may be tempting to write
off Walsh's latest proclamation. But this sentiment--that a Donald Trump loss might justify the violent overthrow of a Hillary Clinton administration--is a longtime GOP talking point. The NRA has longed peddled the "insurrectionist" theory of the Second
Amendment, arguing that the right to bear arms was intended to protect citizens against a tyrannical ruler.
This insurrectionist theory has gained a foothold in the Republican Party. During his campaign for the presidential nomination, Texas
Republican Ted Cruz asserted that the Second Amendment provides "a Constitutional right to protect your children, your family, your home, our lives, and to serve as the ultimate check against governmental tyranny--for the protection of liberty."
Source: Slate.com, "Grabbing My Musket," on 2018 Texas Senate race
Oct 26, 2016
Van Taylor:
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; Sen. Taylor voted YES; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Beto O`Rourke:
Supports red-flag laws for situations like Uvalde
The two candidates traded barbs over gun control, which became a major issue on the campaign following the deadly shooting of 19 children and two teachers at a Uvalde elementary school in May. Hours before the debate, a group of about 35 family members
of the victims of the Uvalde shooting held a news conference with O'Rourke, announcing their support for him. They criticized Abbott for not taking action after the shooting and for refusing their call for the governor to call a special session to
change gun laws to raise the legal age for purchasing an assault-style rifle from 18 to 21.Abbott also said he was opposed to red flag laws. The Uvalde families have called for the passage of red flag laws, which allow judges to
temporarily seize firearms from people who are deemed dangerous. O'Rourke said he supports raising the age to buy assault-style rifles, red flag laws and universal background checks.
Source: Texas Tribune on 2022 Texas Gubernatorial race
Sep 30, 2022
Greg Abbott:
No red-flag laws: they violate due process
Gun control became a major issue following the deadly shooting at a Uvalde elementary school in May. Before the debate, a group of about 35 family members of the victims of the Uvalde shooting held a news conference with O'Rourke, announcing their
support for him. They criticized Abbott for not taking action after the shooting and for refusing their call for the governor to call a special session to change gun laws to raise the legal age for purchasing an assault-style rifle from 18 to 21.
Abbott has said he believes such a change to the law would be unconstitutional. At the debate, Abbott reiterated that he opposed the change in law "purely from a legal position" and said other states that had passed such laws--like Florida--would have
to deal with legal battles. Abbott also said he was opposed to red flag laws because they would deny "lawful Texas gun owners their constitutional right to due process." The Uvalde families have called for the passage of red flag laws.
Source: Texas Tribune on 2022 Texas Gubernatorial race
Sep 30, 2022
Greg Abbott:
Mandatory minimum sentence for illegally possessing guns
Another public safety issue is gun crime. Some want more gun laws, but too many local officials won't even enforce the gun laws that are already on the books. Most gun crimes are committed by criminals who possess guns illegally.
We need to leave prosecutors and judges with no choice but to punish those criminals and remove them and their guns from our streets. I want a mandatory minimum sentence for criminals who illegally possess guns of 10 years behind bars.
Source: 2023 State of the State Address to the Texas legislature
Feb 16, 2023
Colin Allred:
For raising age to buy semi-automatic file to 21
Allred touched on other issues that toe the more traditional Democratic line. He called for raising the age to buy semi-automatic rifles to 21, the implementation of red flag laws, and establishing a universal background check system.
Allred also criticized the Trump tax cuts on the grounds that they worsened the deficit and by extension the $32 trillion national debt.
Source: The Texan on 2024 Texas Senate race
Jul 3, 2023
Colin Allred:
What gun safety measures can realistically pass the Senate?
Preventing gun violence is one of [opponent Roland] Gutierrez's top reasons for running. He represents the district where the Uvalde school shooting took place last year and has spent the year energetically pushing for gun restrictions at the
Texas Capitol. "The Safer Communities Act was a good start, but not nearly enough," Gutierrez said of the post-Uvalde federal law that increased background checks for gun buyers under age
21 and created new funding for state gun-safety programs.Allred credited U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, for his work advancing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act last year, and
Allred said any continued work in gun safety will have to be measured and in line with what can realistically pass a closely divided Senate.
Source: Texas Tribune on 2024 Texas Senate race
Aug 9, 2023
Roland Gutierrez:
Been a leading voice in state senate on gun violence
As a Texas State Senator, Roland has been a leading voice in the state's capitol in preventing gun violence. After the Uvalde massacre, Roland fought side by side with the parents and families of the
19 children and 2 teachers to uncover the failures in the Department of Public Safety and state's response to the shooting.
Source: 2024 Texas Senate campaign website RolandForTexas.com
Aug 28, 2023
Roland Gutierrez:
For universal background checks, red flag laws
Preventing gun violence is one of Gutierrez's top reasons for running. He represents the district where the Uvalde school shooting took place last year and has spent the year energetically pushing for gun restrictions at the Texas Capitol. "The Safer
Communities Act was a good start, but not nearly enough," Gutierrez said of the post-Uvalde federal law that increased background checks for gun buyers under age 21.Gutierrez said he wants to see universal background checks, red flag laws that allow
judges to temporarily seize firearms from people who are deemed dangerous and an increase in the minimum age to buy an AR-15 from 18 to 21. As for stopping the future sale of such firearms, he said he is open to a ban with exceptions for law
enforcement, military veterans & farmers who can prove they need such a weapon for something like killing feral hogs, a common problem in rural Texas. Gutierrez said he supported a voluntary buyback but questioned whether a mandatory program would work.
Source: Texas Tribune on 2024 Texas Senate race
Aug 9, 2023
Roland Gutierrez:
Oppose open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; State Rep. Roland Gutierrez voted NO; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Carl Sherman:
Supports comprehensive background checks, closing loopholes
Gun violence is one of the most pressing issues that affects communities across Texas. Sherman acknowledges the importance of responsible gun ownership while recognizing the need for common-sense gun safety measures.
He supports comprehensive background checks, closing loopholes in existing laws, and implementing measures to keep firearms out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves and public safety.
Source: 2024 Texas Senate campaign website CarlSherman.com
Feb 15, 2024
Carl Sherman:
Oppose concealed carry without training or permit
Summary by Texas Tribune: The new Texas gun law allows anyone 21 years or older to carry a handgun in public without need for a permit or training as long as they aren't otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm by law, such as people
with felony or domestic violence convictions. Before Sept. 1, Texans were mostly required to be licensed to carry handguns. To attain a license, applicants were required to submit fingerprints, complete four to six hours of training, and pass a written
exam and shooting proficiency test.
The founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, repeatedly pointed out that despite arguments from [legislative sponsors] that more guns make a safer Texas, gun violence has increased year over year, [saying] "Why
does Texas still have high gun violence, yet they have a higher rate of gun ownership?"
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 82-62-2 on May/23/21; Rep. Carl Sherman voted NO; passed Senate on May/24/21; signed by Governor Jun/16/21
Source: Texas Tribune on TX State Legislature voting records HB1927
May 31, 2021
Carl Sherman:
Supports comprehensive background checks, closing loopholes
Gun violence is one of the most pressing issues that affects communities across Texas. Sherman acknowledges the importance of responsible gun ownership while recognizing the need for common-sense gun safety measures.
He supports comprehensive background checks, closing loopholes in existing laws, and implementing measures to keep firearms out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves and public safety.
Source: 2024 Texas Senate campaign website CarlSherman.com
Feb 15, 2024
Colin Allred:
Supports red flag laws & assault weapons ban
Gun Laws : Loosen or tighten gun regulation?- Colin Allred (D): Tighten. Supports "common-sense" laws to "reduce gun violence and save lives." Voted to implement "red flag" laws, raise the legal age to buy some rifles,
& expand background checks. Sponsored an assault weapons ban.
- Ted Cruz (R): Loosen. Opposed bipartisan gun safety bill; it would "keep guns from law-abiding owners." Wants "more police officers" in schools.
Source: Guides.vote candidate survey on 2024 Texas Senate race
Aug 8, 2024
Craig Goldman:
Support concealed carry without training or permit
Summary by Texas Tribune: The new Texas gun law allows anyone 21 years or older to carry a handgun in public without need for a permit or training as long as they aren't otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm by law, such as people
with felony or domestic violence convictions. Before Sept. 1, Texans were mostly required to be licensed to carry handguns. To attain a license, applicants were required to submit fingerprints, complete four to six hours of training, and pass a written
exam and shooting proficiency test.The founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, repeatedly pointed out that despite arguments from [legislative sponsors] that more guns make a safer Texas, gun violence has increased year over year,
[saying] "Why does Texas still have high gun violence, yet they have a higher rate of gun ownership?"
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 82-62-2 on May/23; Rep. Goldman voted YES; passed Senate on May/24; signed by Gov. Abbott Jun/16/21
Source: Texas Tribune on TX State Legislature voting records HB1927
Jun 16, 2021
Craig Goldman:
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
Favor open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.Legislative outcome:
Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; Rep. Goldman co-authored & voted YES; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Julie Johnson:
Oppose concealed carry without training or permit
Summary by Texas Tribune: The new Texas gun law allows anyone 21 years or older to carry a handgun in public without need for a permit or training as long as they aren't otherwise prohibited from owning a firearm by law, such as people
with felony or domestic violence convictions. Before Sept. 1, Texans were mostly required to be licensed to carry handguns. To attain a license, applicants were required to submit fingerprints, complete four to six hours of training, and pass a written
exam and shooting proficiency test.
The founder of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense, repeatedly pointed out that despite arguments from [legislative sponsors] that more guns make a safer Texas, gun violence has increased year over year, [saying] "Why
does Texas still have high gun violence, yet they have a higher rate of gun ownership?"
Legislative Outcome: Passed House 82-62-2 on May/23/21; State Rep. Julie Johnson voted NO; passed Senate on May/24/21; signed by Governor Jun/16/21
Source: Texas Tribune on TX State Legislature voting records HB1927
May 31, 2021
Sylvester Turner:
Oppose open carry of holstered handgun
House Bill 910 authorizes a person who is licensed to carry a handgun to openly carry a holstered handgun. This open carry legislation allows individuals with a CHL license to carry their guns openly, without concealment, in a holster in any location
that CHL holders were previously able to carry concealed weapons. There are close to 900,000 CHL holders in Texas, and the state has agreements whereby permit holders from over 40 states may also carry handguns in Texas.
Any private businesses seeking to prohibit open carry within their establishments must abide by strict signage requirements that some within the business community consider onerous.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 20-11-0 on May/29/15; passed House 102-43-1 on May/29/15; State Rep. Sylvester Turner voted NO; signed by Governor Greg Abbott Jun/13/15.
Source: Texas Gun Sense on Texas legislative voting records: HB910
May 29, 2015
Ken Paxton:
He will stand with President Trump to protect our gun rights
We've seen an unprecedented assault on our Constitutional freedoms-- like our 2nd Amendment rights-- from "Republicans" and Democrats alike. Ken Paxton is running to stop the career politicians who are attacking our way of life.
He will stand with President Trump to protect our gun rights, defend the unborn, and defeat the radical transgender movement that's desperate to put men in girls' sports and woke indoctrination in our classrooms.
Source: 2026 Texas Senate campaign website KenPaxton.com
Aug 22, 2025
Wesley Hunt:
A strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment and gun owner
PRO 2ND AMENDMENT: As a strong supporter of the 2nd Amendment and gun owner,
I will support our right to defend ourselves and our families.
Source: 2026 Texas Senate campaign website WesleyForTexas.com
Nov 2, 2025
Page last updated: Feb 07, 2026