Langley Outdoors Academy

Senate Rejects ATF Pistol Brace Rule Referendum, Democrats Gain Political Leverage

Video Highlights

  • Senate strikes down the resolution to nullify the ATF pistol brace rule.
  • Outcome benefits Democrats in the long term, despite initial setback.
  • Majority of media coverage leans toward the center, with a mix of left and right perspectives.
  • Senate vote largely along party lines, with Democratic senators Joe Manchin and Jon Tester voting against the resolution.
  • President Biden expected to veto the measure, as previously indicated.
  • Political implications arise as vulnerable Democratic senators in red states face potential backlash.

Video Summary


In a recent development, the Senate has struck down a resolution aimed at nullifying the ATF pistol brace rule. This outcome aligns with earlier predictions discussed on Langley Outdoors Academy, highlighting the political advantage for Democrats in the long term. Although the immediate result may be disappointing for gun enthusiasts, the implications for the upcoming general election cannot be overlooked.

Media coverage of this event displays an interesting mix of perspectives, with the majority of sources leaning toward the center. The ability to compare left, center, and right articles on platforms like Ground News provides a comprehensive understanding of the various biases in reporting. It is important to note that many media outlets are owned by conglomerates or wealthy individuals, highlighting the need for unbiased sources like Ground News.

When the pistol nullification resolution was introduced in the House, it was evident that the path to success would face significant obstacles. The resolution needed to pass both the Senate and receive the president's signature, making its fulfillment unlikely. Despite this anticipated outcome, the resolution served as a political tool, enabling lawmakers to gauge support and use it as leverage in the upcoming general election.

Democratic senators Joe Manchin from West Virginia and Jon Tester from Montana, both facing tough re-election races in red states, voted against the resolution. This strategic move positions them favorably among pro-gun constituents, potentially safeguarding their seats in the upcoming election. With the resolution's failure by a slim margin of 49 to 50, President Biden's expected veto was already a known factor.

Chuck Schumer, the Senate Majority Leader and a Democrat from New York, defended the ATF pistol brace rule, arguing that repealing it would make it easier to conceal assault-style pistols, which have been used in numerous mass shootings. However, Schumer's statement conflated the appearance of a machine gun with the functionality of a pistol brace, misrepresenting the intentions of Republicans. The debate surrounding pistol braces and their categorization as "unusual and dangerous weapons" has been a point of contention. The Office of Management and Budget has clarified that these braces are not considered unusual weapons and are protected under the Second Amendment.

While the Senate's rejection of the ATF pistol brace rule referendum may seem like a setback, it ultimately provides Democrats with political leverage in red states. As the general election approaches in about 15 months, vulnerable Democratic senators can now use their voting records on this resolution to appeal to pro-gun constituents. This outcome reflects the intricacies of political maneuvering and highlights the importance of understanding the long-term implications beyond immediate legislative results.