Lecture on the NRA and Global Gun Influence

Introduction

• Discussed the National Rifle Association (NRA), a prominent gun rights organization
• Currently facing internal turmoil and external scrutiny

Internal Turmoil

• Oliver North announced stepping down as NRA president
  • Accused Wayne LaPierre, the chief executive, of financial misconduct
  • North had evidence of LaPierre's extravagant spending
  • LaPierre accused North of extortion
• Financial misconduct details:
  • $40,000 for clothing
  • $18,000 for car/driver in Europe
  • $13,800 for college intern's rent

External Challenges

• New York Attorney General investigating NRA's non-profit status
• Comparison to other non-profits: Guantanamo Bay built by Habitat for Humanity

NRA Annual Convention and Trump’s Actions

• At NRA’s annual convention, President Trump announced U.S. withdrawal from the UN Arms Trade Treaty
  • Treaty aimed to prevent arms used for war crimes/human rights abuses
  • NRA feared the treaty might lead to U.S. gun control

Global Influence:

• NRA’s influence on international gun policy
  • Influencing countries like Brazil, Australia, and New Zealand
  • Financial ties to international gun manufacturers (e.g., Beretta, Glock)