In a recent interview on “60 Minutes,” Vice President Kamala Harris revealed that she owns a Glock handgun, sparking accusations of hypocrisy from critics who remember her previous calls for strict gun control. During the segment, Harris stated, “I have a Glock and I’ve had it for quite some time,” referencing her background in law enforcement to justify her ownership. However, this claim raises significant questions, especially considering her history of supporting firearm restrictions during her time as San Francisco’s district attorney and her ongoing advocacy for gun control in Washington.
California law mandates that gun purchasers must possess a Firearm Safety Certificate, while Washington, D.C., requires all handguns to be registered. Additionally, D.C. law prohibits magazines with capacities exceeding ten rounds, a threshold many Glock models surpass. Critics like Mike Davis, a former Supreme Court clerk, have pointed out the inconsistencies in Harris’s statements, asking whether she has complied with the legal requirements for gun ownership in D.C.
The political ramifications of Harris’s comments were echoed by country music star John Rich, who highlighted the contradiction in her position. Harris once supported measures to ban what she termed “high-capacity magazines,” while Glock magazines typically hold at least ten rounds. This contradiction has led to skepticism about her claims, with some questioning the authenticity of her ownership altogether.
Moreover, Harris’s history includes backing Proposition H in 2005, which sought to ban handgun ownership in San Francisco, and signing an amicus brief in support of D.C.’s handgun ban. As she attempts to portray herself as a moderate on gun rights, her dual stances leave many wondering about the sincerity of her claims. Conservative commentator Dana Loesch even suggested that Harris may not genuinely own a Glock, casting doubt on her understanding of firearm regulations and models.
In a political climate where consistency and authenticity are paramount, Harris’s statements have only fueled the debate surrounding gun rights, leaving many in the Republican base questioning her true stance on the issue.