I would agree that the proximal issue is how easy it is to illegally obtain guns, but I think the solution to that is just reduce the availability of guns for those who don’t need them, are on the fence about buying, won’t take the responsibility seriously, etc. I think the problem is how overly normalized gun ownership is, and how unseriously it’s taken. The solution just has to be more barriers to entry to ensure the people getting them are (on average) more serious about safety and responsibility. I also agree about the handguns thing.

Yes, effective gun control measures need to target the buying process for firearms more generally, instead of fixating on specific models.

Mission failed, we’ll get 'em next time

Because Trump is very deeply popular with a huge voter block. Going against him means he’ll just point those people at you and say “this guy’s bad, also probably a pedophile or some shit idk” and then your career is over.

The answer to questions like these is always money.