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Member Profile

Chris Cox

Executive Director, NRA-ILA

Chris Cox

Executive Director, NRA-ILA

Biography

After receiving a B.A. from Rhodes College, Chris Cox worked as a legislative aide to U.S. Representative John Tanner (D-TN) and as a lobbyist. He began working for the National Rifle Association in 1995 as a federal liaison in the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA). Cox was promoted to Deputy Director of the Federal Affairs Division in 2000 before taking over as the Executive Director of NRA-ILA in 2002. He develops and executes political campaign and legislative initiatives, coordinates national advertising and direct-mail programs and has administrative responsibility over ILA’s $20 million budget. Cox also serves as chairman of the NRA’s political action committee, the “Political Victory Fund.”


All Statements (35 total)

Statements by Category (35 total)

  • Women's Rights
    Cox addressed the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio on July 19, 2016, telling those in attendance, "We're worried, and we have reason to be, because our government has failed to keep us safe. You have to be able to protect yourself and your family, and that's what the Second Amendment is all about. Imagine a young mother at home with her baby when a violent predator kicks the door in. He's a three-time loser who was released from prison early because some politician wanted to show their compassion. What's she going to do? She'll dial 911 and pray. The police will do their best to get their quickly but their average response time is 11 minutes." Cox also spoke about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, saying, "In case you're wondering where Hillary Clinton stands, she said, 'The Supreme Court is wrong on the Second Amendment.' Think about that ... A Hillary Clinton Supreme Court means your right to own a firearm is gone ... Voting for Hillary Clinton [in November 2016], or not voting, is simply not an option." In fact, as FactCheck.org has shown, Hillary Clinton has repeatedly indicated she wants to protect the constitutional rights of gun owners. Finally, Cox bragged, "Donald Trump is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association, so are his sons Donald and Eric, because we're the largest and oldest civil rights organization in America. We fight for the rights of all Americans, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation ... The only we save [this great nation], the only way we save it, is by electing Donald Trump the next president of the United States."

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    Cox addressed the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio on July 19, 2016, telling those in attendance, "We're worried, and we have reason to be, because our government has failed to keep us safe. You have to be able to protect yourself and your family, and that's what the Second Amendment is all about. Imagine a young mother at home with her baby when a violent predator kicks the door in. He's a three-time loser who was released from prison early because some politician wanted to show their compassion. What's she going to do? She'll dial 911 and pray. The police will do their best to get their quickly but their average response time is 11 minutes." Cox also spoke about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, saying, "In case you're wondering where Hillary Clinton stands, she said, 'The Supreme Court is wrong on the Second Amendment.' Think about that ... A Hillary Clinton Supreme Court means your right to own a firearm is gone ... Voting for Hillary Clinton [in November 2016], or not voting, is simply not an option." In fact, as FactCheck.org has shown, Hillary Clinton has repeatedly indicated she wants to protect the constitutional rights of gun owners. Finally, Cox bragged, "Donald Trump is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association, so are his sons Donald and Eric, because we're the largest and oldest civil rights organization in America. We fight for the rights of all Americans, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation ... The only we save [this great nation], the only way we save it, is by electing Donald Trump the next president of the United States."

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Lobbying Activity
    Cox addressed the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio on July 19, 2016, telling those in attendance, "We're worried, and we have reason to be, because our government has failed to keep us safe. You have to be able to protect yourself and your family, and that's what the Second Amendment is all about. Imagine a young mother at home with her baby when a violent predator kicks the door in. He's a three-time loser who was released from prison early because some politician wanted to show their compassion. What's she going to do? She'll dial 911 and pray. The police will do their best to get their quickly but their average response time is 11 minutes." Cox also spoke about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, saying, "In case you're wondering where Hillary Clinton stands, she said, 'The Supreme Court is wrong on the Second Amendment.' Think about that ... A Hillary Clinton Supreme Court means your right to own a firearm is gone ... Voting for Hillary Clinton [in November 2016], or not voting, is simply not an option." In fact, as FactCheck.org has shown, Hillary Clinton has repeatedly indicated she wants to protect the constitutional rights of gun owners. Finally, Cox bragged, "Donald Trump is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association, so are his sons Donald and Eric, because we're the largest and oldest civil rights organization in America. We fight for the rights of all Americans, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation ... The only we save [this great nation], the only way we save it, is by electing Donald Trump the next president of the United States."

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Republican Party (GOP)
    Cox addressed the Republican National Convention in Cleveland, Ohio on July 19, 2016, telling those in attendance, "We're worried, and we have reason to be, because our government has failed to keep us safe. You have to be able to protect yourself and your family, and that's what the Second Amendment is all about. Imagine a young mother at home with her baby when a violent predator kicks the door in. He's a three-time loser who was released from prison early because some politician wanted to show their compassion. What's she going to do? She'll dial 911 and pray. The police will do their best to get their quickly but their average response time is 11 minutes." Cox also spoke about Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, saying, "In case you're wondering where Hillary Clinton stands, she said, 'The Supreme Court is wrong on the Second Amendment.' Think about that ... A Hillary Clinton Supreme Court means your right to own a firearm is gone ... Voting for Hillary Clinton [in November 2016], or not voting, is simply not an option." In fact, as FactCheck.org has shown, Hillary Clinton has repeatedly indicated she wants to protect the constitutional rights of gun owners. Finally, Cox bragged, "Donald Trump is a Life Member of the National Rifle Association, so are his sons Donald and Eric, because we're the largest and oldest civil rights organization in America. We fight for the rights of all Americans, regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation ... The only we save [this great nation], the only way we save it, is by electing Donald Trump the next president of the United States."

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1]

  • Education
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Foreign Policy
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Health Care
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Labor
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • LGBT Rights
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Voting Rights
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Women's Rights
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)
    Speaking at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum at the organization's annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky on May 20, 2016, Cox attacked Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton at length, declaring, "If we don’t show up in force to the polls this November, we will witness the end of individual freedom in this country. That's not hyperbole. It's the truth ... Hundreds of thousands of people will lose their firearms and lose their jobs. As bad as that sounds, it’s just the beginning. It ends with no right to own a gun in your home anywhere in America, anywhere, period ... She wants us to live in place where only law enforcement has guns and everything is free. Free meals. Free health care. Free education. Well, Hillary, that place does exist and you just might get to live there. Its called prison ... America can’t survive eight years of her policy.” Cox added that Clinton's role performance as Secretary of State during the September 11, 2012 attack on the U.S. Embassy in Benghazi, Libya “should disqualify her from even being mentioned as Commander in Chief ... How about spending every minute taking the handcuffs off our soldiers from BS rules of engagement, so they can get the job done?" On the subject of voting rights, Cox told Clinton, "You fight to give voting rights...to violent felons and crack dealers. We fight for the innocent people they terrorize." Cox then alluded to the extramarital affairs of former President Bill Clinton, saying, "[Hillary Clinton] looks at all the discord and division and starts shopping online for his and her twin beds for the White House." On the subject of LGBTQ rights, Cox stated, “The media tells [our children famous transgender American] Bruce Jenner is a national hero for transforming his body, while our wounded warriors whose bodies were transformed by IEDs and rocket-propelled grenades can’t even get basic healthcare from the VA.” Finally, opining on home defense, Cox told the audience, “I don’t care if it's an AR[-style assault rifle], pump-action [shotgun], or revolver. I don’t care if it holds 30 rounds or if it’s a single shot. The question is should you have the basic right to use a firearm to protect yourself from a murderer in your home?”

    Sources [1]

  • Health Care
    In an interview with Fox News host Megyn Kelly on January 7, 2016, Cox declared, "[President Barack Obama] would have the American people believe that in order to love your children, you have to hate your firearms. That's not only offensive, it's disgusting." When asked what he would do to prevent the next mass shooting like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut in 2012, Cox pivoted immediately to the issue of mental health, indicating that easy access to firearms played no role in the tragedy. Finally, Cox claimed that the NRA elected not to participate in a town hall on gun violence that evening on CNN because the White House offered them only one pre-screened question during the event. The Washington Post reported two days later, however, that a CNN representative indicated that "CNN was the only one screening the questions ... Not only did the White House get no peek at the questions [asked at the town hall], but that the network apprised the NRA that there would be no sharing [of questions with the White House] of that sort."

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    In an interview with Fox News host Megyn Kelly on January 7, 2016, Cox declared, "[President Barack Obama] would have the American people believe that in order to love your children, you have to hate your firearms. That's not only offensive, it's disgusting." When asked what he would do to prevent the next mass shooting like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut in 2012, Cox pivoted immediately to the issue of mental health, indicating that easy access to firearms played no role in the tragedy. Finally, Cox claimed that the NRA elected not to participate in a town hall on gun violence that evening on CNN because the White House offered them only one pre-screened question during the event. The Washington Post reported two days later, however, that a CNN representative indicated that "CNN was the only one screening the questions ... Not only did the White House get no peek at the questions [asked at the town hall], but that the network apprised the NRA that there would be no sharing [of questions with the White House] of that sort."

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Fox News Appearances
    In an interview with Fox News host Megyn Kelly on January 7, 2016, Cox declared, "[President Barack Obama] would have the American people believe that in order to love your children, you have to hate your firearms. That's not only offensive, it's disgusting." When asked what he would do to prevent the next mass shooting like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut in 2012, Cox pivoted immediately to the issue of mental health, indicating that easy access to firearms played no role in the tragedy. Finally, Cox claimed that the NRA elected not to participate in a town hall on gun violence that evening on CNN because the White House offered them only one pre-screened question during the event. The Washington Post reported two days later, however, that a CNN representative indicated that "CNN was the only one screening the questions ... Not only did the White House get no peek at the questions [asked at the town hall], but that the network apprised the NRA that there would be no sharing [of questions with the White House] of that sort."

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Republican Party (GOP)
    In an interview with Fox News host Megyn Kelly on January 7, 2016, Cox declared, "[President Barack Obama] would have the American people believe that in order to love your children, you have to hate your firearms. That's not only offensive, it's disgusting." When asked what he would do to prevent the next mass shooting like the one that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut in 2012, Cox pivoted immediately to the issue of mental health, indicating that easy access to firearms played no role in the tragedy. Finally, Cox claimed that the NRA elected not to participate in a town hall on gun violence that evening on CNN because the White House offered them only one pre-screened question during the event. The Washington Post reported two days later, however, that a CNN representative indicated that "CNN was the only one screening the questions ... Not only did the White House get no peek at the questions [asked at the town hall], but that the network apprised the NRA that there would be no sharing [of questions with the White House] of that sort."

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1]

  • Lobbying Activity

    Sources [1]

  • Foreign Policy

    Sources [1]

  • Vigilantism

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1]

  • Education
    In an editorial entitled “On Campus Carry, We’ve Only Begun to Fight” in the August 2015 issue of America’s 1st Freedom, Cox made the following statement in regards to legislation that would force U.S. colleges and universities to allow the carrying of guns on their campuses: “People have the fundamental, constitutional right to defend themselves … College and faculty members have joined the fray, claiming that campus carry will lead to all manner of criminal and negligent misuse of firearms. But you and I know better. We know that campus carry doesn’t lead to problems, because permit holders have proven time and time again—in state after state—to be even more law abiding than the citizenry at large.” In truth, research from Stanford University has found that “right-to-carry laws are associated with substantially higher rates” of aggravated assault, rape, robbery and murder. The website “Concealed Carry Killers” also regularly documents instances of concealed handgun permit holders committing acts of murder, to include mass shootings.

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Vigilantism
    In an email to Guns.com on June 3, 2015, Cox talked about Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval signing SB 175, stating, “The law is now squarely on the side of victims instead of criminals. Nevada’s new law protects the constitutional rights of Nevadans and strengthens their ability to protect their families from harm.” SB 175 eliminated licensing and registration requirements for handgun owners in Clark County (a system that had been in place since 1948) and applied the state’s “Castle Doctrine” to vehicles. The bill made it legal to use lethal force “when grand larceny of that vehicle might be taking place.” The Nevada American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) took a different view on SB 175, however, stating that such “Kill at Will” laws raise “serious civil liberties and racial justice concerns. Killing another person is the most serious deprivation of liberty that a person can inflict. The irreversibility of a homicide means that error discovered after a death has occurred cannot be corrected. By increasing the circumstances in which private individuals may use lethal force without fear of legal consequences, this bill increases the number of people who are killed without due process of law.”

    Sources [1]

  • Lobbying Activity
    In an email to Guns.com on June 3, 2015, Cox talked about Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval signing SB 175, stating, “The law is now squarely on the side of victims instead of criminals. Nevada’s new law protects the constitutional rights of Nevadans and strengthens their ability to protect their families from harm.” SB 175 eliminated licensing and registration requirements for handgun owners in Clark County (a system that had been in place since 1948) and applied the state’s “Castle Doctrine” to vehicles. The bill made it legal to use lethal force “when grand larceny of that vehicle might be taking place.” The Nevada American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) took a different view on SB 175, however, stating that such “Kill at Will” laws raise “serious civil liberties and racial justice concerns. Killing another person is the most serious deprivation of liberty that a person can inflict. The irreversibility of a homicide means that error discovered after a death has occurred cannot be corrected. By increasing the circumstances in which private individuals may use lethal force without fear of legal consequences, this bill increases the number of people who are killed without due process of law.”

    Sources [1]

  • Health Care

    Sources [1]

  • Vigilantism

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    On April 10, 2015, during a speech at the NRA’s Annual Meeting in Nashville, Cox launched a broad attack on President Barack Obama, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, Everytown for Gun Safety head/former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Democratic presidential candidate/former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. “Well, you all deserve a big thank you because you elected pro-gun Senators [during the November 2014 election] and gave Harry Reid a demotion!” Reid stated. “You also gave Michael Bloomberg, that nanny state billionaire, a Chuck Norris roundhouse kick to the head! … You know, they’re about as trustworthy as Mexican tap water.” Regarding Hillary Clinton, Cox stated, “When it comes to attacking our Second Amendment freedoms, you can bet she’ll make Barack Obama look like an amateur. Obama won’t admit that he wants to register guns, but Hillary’s proud to support it. The only reason to register guns is to tax ‘em or take ‘em—and there’s no doubt Her Royal Highness would love to do both! … There’s no limit to the destruction of individual freedom she’d cause with four or eight years in office.” In fact, Clinton has made no mention of pushing for a national licensing and registration policy on the campaign trail. Cox also commented on a proposed rule by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that sought to ban a specific type of 5.56 ammunition that can pierce body armor worn by law enforcement officers. “We saw it just last month when [President Obama] tried to ban rifle ammunition,” Cox said. “We know what he really wanted to do. He wanted to ban our guns. But he couldn’t get that done so he tried to ban our ammo instead … Let’s be clear—this wasn’t only about green-tip ammo for your AR-15. They came up with an entire framework so they could ban all centerfire ammunition—.223, .270, .30-06, you name it.” The “framework” referred to by Cox was originally established in 1986 when President Ronald Reagan signed the Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act into law. It grants ATF authority to ban armor-piercing ammunition that can be fired from handguns (as opposed to shotguns and rifles). ATF proposed a new rule in 2015 banning “green-tip” ammunition because it could be employed in AR-style pistols now being widely marketed to civilians by the gun industry. ATF eventually opted to delay implementation of the rule because of opposition from the Republican Congress and gun lobby. President Obama, for his part, has never advocated any ban on firearms outside of renewing the federal Assault Weapons Ban, which only applies to a limited class of firearms. (GOP Ties, Conspiracy Theory)

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)
    On April 10, 2015, during a speech at the NRA’s Annual Meeting in Nashville, Cox launched a broad attack on President Barack Obama, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, Everytown for Gun Safety head/former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Democratic presidential candidate/former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. “Well, you all deserve a big thank you because you elected pro-gun Senators [during the November 2014 election] and gave Harry Reid a demotion!” Reid stated. “You also gave Michael Bloomberg, that nanny state billionaire, a Chuck Norris roundhouse kick to the head! … You know, they’re about as trustworthy as Mexican tap water.” Regarding Hillary Clinton, Cox stated, “When it comes to attacking our Second Amendment freedoms, you can bet she’ll make Barack Obama look like an amateur. Obama won’t admit that he wants to register guns, but Hillary’s proud to support it. The only reason to register guns is to tax ‘em or take ‘em—and there’s no doubt Her Royal Highness would love to do both! … There’s no limit to the destruction of individual freedom she’d cause with four or eight years in office.” In fact, Clinton has made no mention of pushing for a national licensing and registration policy on the campaign trail. Cox also commented on a proposed rule by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that sought to ban a specific type of 5.56 ammunition that can pierce body armor worn by law enforcement officers. “We saw it just last month when [President Obama] tried to ban rifle ammunition,” Cox said. “We know what he really wanted to do. He wanted to ban our guns. But he couldn’t get that done so he tried to ban our ammo instead … Let’s be clear—this wasn’t only about green-tip ammo for your AR-15. They came up with an entire framework so they could ban all centerfire ammunition—.223, .270, .30-06, you name it.” The “framework” referred to by Cox was originally established in 1986 when President Ronald Reagan signed the Law Enforcement Officers Protection Act into law. It grants ATF authority to ban armor-piercing ammunition that can be fired from handguns (as opposed to shotguns and rifles). ATF proposed a new rule in 2015 banning “green-tip” ammunition because it could be employed in AR-style pistols now being widely marketed to civilians by the gun industry. ATF eventually opted to delay implementation of the rule because of opposition from the Republican Congress and gun lobby. President Obama, for his part, has never advocated any ban on firearms outside of renewing the federal Assault Weapons Ban, which only applies to a limited class of firearms. (GOP Ties, Conspiracy Theory)

    Sources [1]

  • Religion
    In a March 7, 2015 interview with The Jackson Sun, Cox commented on his career as the NRA's chief lobbyist, saying, "I had no idea that this was the path my life would take and that God would guide me down."

    Sources [1]

  • Lobbying Activity
    In a March 7, 2015 interview with The Jackson Sun, Cox commented on his career as the NRA's chief lobbyist, saying, "I had no idea that this was the path my life would take and that God would guide me down."

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    On March 5, 2015, in an editorial for the Washington Times, Cox accused President Barack Obama of using the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) “to impose gun control that he couldn’t get through Congress.” Cox continued, “He tried to ban America’s most popular rifle and failed. Now he is trying to ban the ammo. The Obama administration’s latest attack on the Constitution is a dictatorial ban by ATF on popular M855 or ‘green tip’ rifle ammunition—one of the most popular cartridges for the most popular rifle in America. M855 ammunition has long been exempt from a federal ban because it is ‘primarily intended to be used for sporting purposes.’ Nothing about this has changed. That is still how it’s used today.” In fact, what’s changed is the development of AR pistols by the gun industry, which can hold the “green tip” round. The 1986 Law Enforcement Officer Protection Act was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan to give ATF the authority to regulate armor-piercing ammunition that may be used in handguns. Handguns are of particular concern to law enforcement because they can be concealed (as opposed to long guns). (Conspiracy Theory)

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    On March 4, 2015, Cox made an appearance on “The Kelly File” on Fox News to talk about a new proposed rule by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) that would prohibit the use of certain ammunition, stating, "President [Barack Obama] tried to ban the most popular rifle in America but he couldn't get it through Congress so now he's trying to ban the ammunition for the most popular rifle." He continued, “So why are they doing it? This is a solution not to a problem, it's a solution to Barack Obama's gun control problem. He couldn't get it through Congress so he's doing it backdoor." In truth, the 1986 Law Enforcement Officer Protection Act signed by President Ronald Reagan gave ATF the authority to regulate armor-piercing ammunition that may be used in handguns. Handguns are of particular concern to law enforcement because they can be concealed (as opposed to long guns). The rule referred to by Cox was spurred by the development of AR pistolsby the gun industry, which can take armor-piercing rounds. (Conspiracy Theory)

    Sources [1]

  • Foreign Policy
    In January 2015, Cox authored an alert to NRA members requesting they sign a petition calling on the U.S. Senate to reject a proposed arms trade treaty being negotiated at the United Nations. Cox wrote, "Make no mistake. If the U.S. Senate fails to stand strong against the U.N. gun ban treaty and fight back against every backdoor attempt by the Obama administration to implement it, we will lose our gun rights and effectively lose our national sovereignty … Gun owners and freedom-loving Americans need to remind their senators that they work for us, NOT Barack Obama and NOT international gun ban zealots.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the import/export of conventional weapons—leaving it to individual countries to “regulate internal transfers of arms and national ownership, including through national constitutional protections on private ownership.” (Conspiracy Theory, Foreign Policy)

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    In January 2015, Cox authored an alert to NRA members requesting they sign a petition calling on the U.S. Senate to reject a proposed arms trade treaty being negotiated at the United Nations. Cox wrote, "Make no mistake. If the U.S. Senate fails to stand strong against the U.N. gun ban treaty and fight back against every backdoor attempt by the Obama administration to implement it, we will lose our gun rights and effectively lose our national sovereignty … Gun owners and freedom-loving Americans need to remind their senators that they work for us, NOT Barack Obama and NOT international gun ban zealots.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the import/export of conventional weapons—leaving it to individual countries to “regulate internal transfers of arms and national ownership, including through national constitutional protections on private ownership.” (Conspiracy Theory, Foreign Policy)

    Sources [1]

  • Vigilantism
    In an August 13, 2014 NRA press release, Cox praised the re-election of Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke Jr., saying his “outspoken commitment to the Second Amendment earned him the admiration of NRA members and gun owners nationwide.” Sheriff Clarke had previously made statements that implied Milwaukee residents should not call 9-11 in response to a home invasion, and instead take matters into their own hands with firearms. As Clarke stated in an interview, “I don’t dial 911. I will afterwards, to say, ‘Come get this dead guy out of my house, he’s bleeding out and he’s messing up my carpet.’” (Vigilantism)

    Sources [1]

  • Vigilantism
    In an August 13, 2014 NRA press release, Cox praised the re-election of Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke Jr., saying his “outspoken commitment to the Second Amendment earned him the admiration of NRA members and gun owners nationwide.” Sheriff Clarke had previously made statements that implied Milwaukee residents should not call 9-11 in response to a home invasion, and instead take matters into their own hands with firearms.  As Clarke stated in an interview, “I don’t dial 911. I will afterwards, to say, ‘Come get this dead guy out of my house, he’s bleeding out and he’s messing up my carpet.’”

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Vigilantism
    In a June 3, 2014 appearance on the NRA’s radio show Cam & Company, Chris Cox discussed a statement issued the previous day by the NRA that described Texas open carry demonstrations as “counterproductive, scary and downright weird.” The statement continued, Using guns merely to draw attention to yourself in public not only defies common sense, it shows a lack of consideration and manners. That’s not the Texas way. And that’s certainly not the NRA way.” Upset by the statement, Open Carry Texas threatened to terminate its membership in the NRA if the statement was not retracted. Speaking to Edwards, Cox claimed the statement was a mistake and blamed a staffer who was expressing his personal opinion.” We support open carry…unapologetically,” stated Cox. Open Carry Texas’ demonstrations have caused a great deal of controversy and alarm and caused several restaurant chains to change their policies and request that customers not bring firearms into their stores.

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

  • Animal Rights
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Education
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Health Care
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Poverty
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Religion
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Conspiracy Theory
    During a speech at the NRA’s annual convention on April 26, 2014, Cox spoke about what children are being taught in school, stating, While they’re at it they should bring God back to school, ‘cause he shouldn’t a’ been kicked out either … This is what we’re up against. Gun control groups and PETA infiltrating our schools.  Teaching our children that their parents are irresponsible if they own a gun, murderers if they hunt, and downright evil if they belong to the NRA.  Brainwashing through fear and intimidation.  Bullying our kids.” On the topic of the Second Amendment, Cox said, I believe God gave us this freedom [to defend ourselves from criminals with firearms].” Cox then declared,We want less food stamps and more hunters for the hungry.  We’d like less Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and more Duck Dynasty.” Cox also asked the audience,If you think universal health care is a disaster, how do you think [President Barack Obama’s] universal gun registration would work out? In truth, President Obama has not called for universal firearm registration at any time during his presidency.  Finally, Cox cited each of former NRA President Charlton Heston’s 10 “Covenants of Courage,” one of which is, “Be willing to disobey.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Freedom of Speech
    On April 25, 2014, during a speech at the NRA Annual Convention’s Leadership Forum, Cox told those who are critical of his organization, The truth is we protect you every day.  If you look around this audience you’ll see the people who fight for your First Amendment rights no matter how much you mock, ridicule and misrepresent our Second Amendment.” 

    Sources [1]

  • Vigilantism
    On April 25, 2014, during a speech at the NRA Annual Convention’s Leadership Forum, Cox told those who are critical of his organization, The truth is we protect you every day.  If you look around this audience you’ll see the people who fight for your First Amendment rights no matter how much you mock, ridicule and misrepresent our Second Amendment.” 

    Sources [1]

  • Other Statements

    In a January 25, 2013 press release from the NRA-ILA, Cox wrote about an article in The Hill that reported the NRA was working on a bill with Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) to implement universal background checks on all firearms purchases. The release stated, “NRA does NOT support universal background checks and is not working with Manchin to implement this type of legislation. NRA opposes, and will continue to oppose, universal background checks.” Several polls conducted in January 2013 in the wake of the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary indicated overwhelming public support for universal background checks. A public opinion poll published by the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health found that 89% of Americans and 74% of NRA members supported requiring a background check for all gun sales. A poll conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 85% of Americans and gun owners favored making private gun sales subject to background checks. A CBS/New York Times poll found that 92% of Americans and 85% of respondents living in a household with an NRA member supported universal background checks. At one time, even the NRA supported expanding background checks. In May 1999, following the mass shooting at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, NRA CEO Wayne LaPierre told Congress that the NRA supported background checks on all firearms purchases at gun shows. A 1999 NRA ad in USA Today read, “We believe it's reasonable to provide for instant background checks at gun shows, just like gun stores and pawn shops.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1]

  • Other Statements

    Sources [1]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    In a September 7, 2012 op-ed for the Daily Caller, Cox wrote, “So far this year, 369 people have been murdered in Chicago … [President Barack] Obama’s 2012 party platform makes it clear that if he wins re-election, he will work to bring the same, dangerous anti-gun policies that are destroying Chicago to cities and towns nationwide. For that reason, November’s election presents a clear choice between our Second Amendment freedoms and fundamental right to self-defense…and the murder and mayhem that Barack Obama helped bring to Chicago, but now wants us all to ignore.” The Democratic National Committee’s party platform states, “We recognize that the individual right to bear arms is an important part of the American tradition, and we will preserve Americans' Second Amendment right to own and use firearms. We believe that the right to own firearms is subject to reasonable regulation. We understand the terrible consequences of gun violence; it serves as a reminder that life is fragile, and our time here is limited and precious. We believe in an honest, open national conversation about firearms. We can focus on effective enforcement of existing laws, especially strengthening our background check system, and we can work together to enact commonsense improvements—like reinstating the assault weapons ban and closing the gun show loophole—so that guns do not fall into the hands of those irresponsible, law-breaking few.” Most of the crime guns recovered in Chicago are originally bought in Illinois. According to a 2008 to 2012 study by the University of Chicago Crime Lab, 45% of Illinois’ crime guns come from one county within the state, Cook County. Chuck’s Gun Store, in Cook County, supplies approximately 20% of the crime guns in Illinois. Roseanna Ander, executive director of the University of Chicago Crime Lab, said that the data “suggests a key strategy in keep guns off the street is for law enforcement agencies to target the local gun stores most likely to sell firearms to straw purchasers.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    In a September 7, 2012 op-ed for the Daily Caller, Cox wrote, “So far this year, 369 people have been murdered in Chicago … [President Barack] Obama’s 2012 party platform makes it clear that if he wins re-election, he will work to bring the same, dangerous anti-gun policies that are destroying Chicago to cities and towns nationwide. For that reason, November’s election presents a clear choice between our Second Amendment freedoms and fundamental right to self-defense…and the murder and mayhem that Barack Obama helped bring to Chicago, but now wants us all to ignore.” The Democratic National Committee’s party platform states, “We recognize that the individual right to bear arms is an important part of the American tradition, and we will preserve Americans' Second Amendment right to own and use firearms. We believe that the right to own firearms is subject to reasonable regulation. We understand the terrible consequences of gun violence; it serves as a reminder that life is fragile, and our time here is limited and precious. We believe in an honest, open national conversation about firearms. We can focus on effective enforcement of existing laws, especially strengthening our background check system, and we can work together to enact commonsense improvements—like reinstating the assault weapons ban and closing the gun show loophole—so that guns do not fall into the hands of those irresponsible, law-breaking few.” Most of the crime guns recovered in Chicago are originally bought in Illinois. According to a 2008 to 2012 study by the University of Chicago Crime Lab, 45% of Illinois’ crime guns come from one county within the state, Cook County. Chuck’s Gun Store, in Cook County, supplies approximately 20% of the crime guns in Illinois. Roseanna Ander, executive director of the University of Chicago Crime Lab, said that the data “suggests a key strategy in keep guns off the street is for law enforcement agencies to target the local gun stores most likely to sell firearms to straw purchasers.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Lobbying Activity

    On July 12, 2012, Cox wrote a letter to U.S. Senators in opposition to the DISCLOSE Act of 2012, a bill that would require disclosure of the corporations and high-dollar individual donors paying for “independent expenditure” political ads. In the letter, Cox stated that the Act’s “provisions require organizations to turn membership and donor lists over to the government” and would violate the right of citizens “to speak and associate privately and anonymously.” Cox threatened, “Due to the importance of the fundamental speech and associational rights of the National Rifle Association’s four million members, and considering the blatant attack on those rights that S. 3369 represents, we strongly oppose the DISCLOSE Act and will consider votes on this legislation in future candidate evaluations.” In fact, groups such as the NRA would not be required to disclose their entire membership or donor list, only the names of those donors whose aggregate donation during the reporting cycle was $10,000 or more. Organizations like the NRA could keep the names of some of their high dollar donors private under the legislation by setting up a separate bank account for independent political spending. Groups would only have to disclose the names of their high dollar donors whose money funded such independent expenditures. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy’s majority opinion in the controversial Citizens United decision endorsed this sort of disclosure as “the less-restrictive alternative to more comprehensive speech regulations.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Criminal Activity

    In a July 2, 2012 op-ed for The Washington Times, Cox wrote, “Today begins the most important 26-day period for our Second Amendment freedoms in recent history. That’s because today, representatives from many of the world’s socialist, tyrannical and dictatorial regimes will gather at United Nations headquarters in New York for a month-long meeting, in which they’ll put the finishing touches on an international Arms Trade Treaty that could seriously restrict your freedom to own, purchase and carry a firearm.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the import/export of conventional weapons—leaving it to individual countries to “regulate internal transfers of arms and national ownership, including through national constitutional protections on private ownership.” Cox added, “You might think that something so obviously menacing to one of our enumerated fundamental rights would receive a strong rebuke from our top government leaders. But you’d be wrong. This is President Barack Obama’s vision for America, and we’re expected to just go along with it. In fact, a group of anti-gun members of the U.S. House of Representatives, led by U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), went so far as to circulate a letter last week to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice, in which they ‘strongly urge the United States to take a leadership role in pushing for a strong, verifiable Arms Trade Treaty’ … Since when did it become fashionable for sitting members of Congress to lobby international thugs, tyrants and dictators against our own U.S. Constitution?

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    In a July 2, 2012 op-ed for The Washington Times, Cox wrote, “Today begins the most important 26-day period for our Second Amendment freedoms in recent history. That’s because today, representatives from many of the world’s socialist, tyrannical and dictatorial regimes will gather at United Nations headquarters in New York for a month-long meeting, in which they’ll put the finishing touches on an international Arms Trade Treaty that could seriously restrict your freedom to own, purchase and carry a firearm.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the import/export of conventional weapons—leaving it to individual countries to “regulate internal transfers of arms and national ownership, including through national constitutional protections on private ownership.” Cox added, “You might think that something so obviously menacing to one of our enumerated fundamental rights would receive a strong rebuke from our top government leaders. But you’d be wrong. This is President Barack Obama’s vision for America, and we’re expected to just go along with it. In fact, a group of anti-gun members of the U.S. House of Representatives, led by U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ), went so far as to circulate a letter last week to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and U.N. Ambassador Susan Rice, in which they ‘strongly urge the United States to take a leadership role in pushing for a strong, verifiable Arms Trade Treaty’ … Since when did it become fashionable for sitting members of Congress to lobby international thugs, tyrants and dictators against our own U.S. Constitution?

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    In a June 28, 2012, interview with NRA News, Cox spoke about a vote in the House of Representatives to hold U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder in criminal contempt for refusing to comply with a Congressional subpoena for documents related to the “Fast and Furious” gun trafficking investigation on the southwest border. Cox stated, “The truth is, we’ve talked a lot about our dislike of Eric Holder. There’s no surprise that we think there’s something there … We believe, and have every reason to believe, that this was all part of their agenda to undermine the Second Amendment … I can assure you that Eric Holder’s contempt for the Second Amendment is the only thing that probably is stronger than Congress’ contempt for Eric Holder … We called for Eric Holder’s resignation over a year ago … But the best way to deal with Eric Holder, the best way to deal with these problems, is to defeat this president in November and to get some new people in there that have a little bit of common sense, a little bit of law enforcement background, that is legitimate, and that won’t be used to pursue a political agenda.” A report released by the Department of Justice’s Inspector General on September 19, 2012 found that there is no evidence that “Fast and Furious” was part of a broader conspiracy to advance new gun regulations. The report also found that there is no evidence that Attorney General Eric Holder was aware of the tactics used in the investigation until after it was concluded in 2011.

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    In a June 28, 2012, interview with NRA News, Cox spoke about a vote in the House of Representatives to hold U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder in criminal contempt for refusing to comply with a Congressional subpoena for documents related to the “Fast and Furious” gun trafficking investigation on the southwest border. Cox stated, “The truth is, we’ve talked a lot about our dislike of Eric Holder. There’s no surprise that we think there’s something there … We believe, and have every reason to believe, that this was all part of their agenda to undermine the Second Amendment … I can assure you that Eric Holder’s contempt for the Second Amendment is the only thing that probably is stronger than Congress’ contempt for Eric Holder … We called for Eric Holder’s resignation over a year ago … But the best way to deal with Eric Holder, the best way to deal with these problems, is to defeat this president in November and to get some new people in there that have a little bit of common sense, a little bit of law enforcement background, that is legitimate, and that won’t be used to pursue a political agenda.” A report released by the Department of Justice’s Inspector General on September 19, 2012 found that there is no evidence that “Fast and Furious” was part of a broader conspiracy to advance new gun regulations. The report also found that there is no evidence that Attorney General Eric Holder was aware of the tactics used in the investigation until after it was concluded in 2011.

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    On April 14, 2012, in a speech at the NRA Convention in St. Louis, Cox stated, “Friends, I know why President [Barack] Obama pays so little attention to the law. He thinks he’s above the law … He seems to think he’s the king of all three branches. How’s that for arrogance, folks?” Later, Cox referred to a discussion President Obama had with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, in which he told Medvedev he would have “more flexibility” to deal with contentious foreign policy issues, such as missile defense, following the November 2012 elections. Cox quipped, “In other words, ‘cut me some slack Dmitry. Once I con these annoying voters into reelecting me in November, I can do whatever I want.’” Cox then warned the audience, “The stakes of this year’s election couldn’t be higher … Freedom is what’s at stake and it’s what we’ll lose if we fail. Let us cling to our firearms…with every fiber of our being.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    On April 14, 2012, in a speech at the NRA Convention in St. Louis, Cox stated, “Friends, I know why President [Barack] Obama pays so little attention to the law. He thinks he’s above the law … He seems to think he’s the king of all three branches. How’s that for arrogance, folks?” Later, Cox referred to a discussion President Obama had with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, in which he told Medvedev he would have “more flexibility” to deal with contentious foreign policy issues, such as missile defense, following the November 2012 elections. Cox quipped, “In other words, ‘cut me some slack Dmitry. Once I con these annoying voters into reelecting me in November, I can do whatever I want.’” Cox then warned the audience, “The stakes of this year’s election couldn’t be higher … Freedom is what’s at stake and it’s what we’ll lose if we fail. Let us cling to our firearms…with every fiber of our being.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    On April 30, 2011, in a speech at the NRA Convention in Pittsburgh, Cox “revisit[ed] some words from [his] political dictionary.” The first of those words was “jack-ass,” which Cox attributed to HBO talk show host Bill Maher, stating, “We will never stop fighting for the Second Amendment or the Constitution which also protects his First Amendment right to be a complete jack-ass.” The second was “hypocrite,” which Cox attributed to filmmaker Spike Lee, who had criticized the NRA for their violent rhetoric following the attempted assassination of Gabby Giffords in Tuscon, Arizona. Cox noted that in May 1999 Lee stated that [Former NRA President] Charlton Heston should be shot. “It was Charlton Heston who opened up Hollywood so African Americans like you could become millionaires,” Cox said. “Instead of running your mouth, why don’t you just do the right thing and say, ‘Thank you Mr. Heston.”

    Turning to the topic of the United Nations, Cox warned, “At the United Nations, freedom-hating governments are working to eliminate firearms ownership around the world and here at home. You’ve seen it on our southern border. Narco-terrorist violence is being exploited. Corrupt government officials and gun ban groups are using Mexico’s problems as an excuse to ban guns. And if that’s not bad enough, Mexico just announced they want to sue American gun companies. Their drugs and violence are flowing across the border into our country, but they’re suin’ us? If anything, we should be suin’ them.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the export of conventional weapons—leaving domestic laws regulating the possession of firearms untouched.

    Cox went on: “But it’s not just attacks from abroad. Here at home, they’re worming their way into our children’s classrooms. Teaching that guns are evil, hunting is cruel, and the freedoms and traditions we cherish the most are wrong or outdated or to blame for all the world’s problems. You all know who’s funding it. Billionaire puppeteers like New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and globalist banker George Soros. We all know they’re not goin’ away and neither’s their money. Folks, there’s a lot goin’ on, there’s a lot at stake, and we don’t have much time. So, I’ll say it without apology. We need your help. We need more members and we need more resources. Here’s why: President [Barack] Obama’s already launched his reelection effort. He kicked it off to get a lead on raisin’ money. They’re sayin’ he could be the first presidential candidate in history to spend more than a billion dollars … What do you lose if Barack Obama wins? Well, you tell me. What if he appoints just one more anti-gun justice to the U.S. Supreme Court and we go from one-vote victories to one-vote defeats for generations to come? What’s that cost? My friends, praying for the health of five Supreme Court justices is not a strategy you want to stake your freedom on. Because, once it’s lost, freedom can be almost impossible to reclaim.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    On April 30, 2011, in a speech at the NRA Convention in Pittsburgh, Cox “revisit[ed] some words from [his] political dictionary.” The first of those words was “jack-ass,” which Cox attributed to HBO talk show host Bill Maher, stating, “We will never stop fighting for the Second Amendment or the Constitution which also protects his First Amendment right to be a complete jack-ass.” The second was “hypocrite,” which Cox attributed to filmmaker Spike Lee, who had criticized the NRA for their violent rhetoric following the attempted assassination of Gabby Giffords in Tuscon, Arizona. Cox noted that in May 1999 Lee stated that [Former NRA President] Charlton Heston should be shot. “It was Charlton Heston who opened up Hollywood so African Americans like you could become millionaires,” Cox said. “Instead of running your mouth, why don’t you just do the right thing and say, ‘Thank you Mr. Heston.”

    Turning to the topic of the United Nations, Cox warned, “At the United Nations, freedom-hating governments are working to eliminate firearms ownership around the world and here at home. You’ve seen it on our southern border. Narco-terrorist violence is being exploited. Corrupt government officials and gun ban groups are using Mexico’s problems as an excuse to ban guns. And if that’s not bad enough, Mexico just announced they want to sue American gun companies. Their drugs and violence are flowing across the border into our country, but they’re suin’ us? If anything, we should be suin’ them.” Cox was referring to a U.N. Small Arms Treaty which would set only international standards for the export of conventional weapons—leaving domestic laws regulating the possession of firearms untouched.

    Cox went on: “But it’s not just attacks from abroad. Here at home, they’re worming their way into our children’s classrooms. Teaching that guns are evil, hunting is cruel, and the freedoms and traditions we cherish the most are wrong or outdated or to blame for all the world’s problems. You all know who’s funding it. Billionaire puppeteers like New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg and globalist banker George Soros. We all know they’re not goin’ away and neither’s their money. Folks, there’s a lot goin’ on, there’s a lot at stake, and we don’t have much time. So, I’ll say it without apology. We need your help. We need more members and we need more resources. Here’s why: President [Barack] Obama’s already launched his reelection effort. He kicked it off to get a lead on raisin’ money. They’re sayin’ he could be the first presidential candidate in history to spend more than a billion dollars … What do you lose if Barack Obama wins? Well, you tell me. What if he appoints just one more anti-gun justice to the U.S. Supreme Court and we go from one-vote victories to one-vote defeats for generations to come? What’s that cost? My friends, praying for the health of five Supreme Court justices is not a strategy you want to stake your freedom on. Because, once it’s lost, freedom can be almost impossible to reclaim.”

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    In the February 2011 issue of America’s 1st Freedom, Cox accused “anti-gun groups” of a “secretive…assault on the Second Amendment through [administrative agencies],” stating, “anti-gun forces will use any means at their disposal, no matter how undemocratic, to undermine the Right to Keep and Bear Arms.” Cox made reference to Mayors Against Illegal Guns’ “Blueprint for Federal Action,” a document which calls for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to promulgate or clarify certain regulations, including a regulation to require firearm manufacturers, distributors and dealers to report thefts of their products as soon as they are made aware of them; a regulation requiring gun manufacturers to put a second, hidden, serial number on every newly manufactured gun, and; a regulation requiring domestic manufacturers to use a standardized system for numbering firearms. Legislation that creates an administrative agency often authorizes the agency to promulgate rules through notice-and-comment rulemaking. The agency may also interpret the provisions of the legislation that created it, if the legislation is ambiguous and the agency interpretation is reasonable.

    Sources [1] [2] [3]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    On May 16, 2009, in a speech at the NRA Convention in Phoenix, Cox stated, “The sanctity of the Second Amendment, all of our rights, all of our freedom, is in your hands. Freedom calls you to her defense now more than ever before because she's under attack like never before.” This was because of the appointments/confirmations of Rahm Emanuel as White House Chief-of-Staff, Eric Holder as U.S. Attorney General, and Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State, Cox explained. “We all know what to expect from our opponents,” he said, “They exploit tragedies. But to be honest with you, I never thought they’d pick an international tragedy. And as you've seen— that's exactly what they're doing with Mexico ... It’s been estimated that 100,000 Mexican soldiers have deserted the military in recent years to go work for the cartels. This is Mexico's problem. But the media and anti-gun politicians want us to believe that one more American gun control law or some international agreement will turn these ruthless murderers into boy scouts. You have got to be kiddin' me! We need to find 'em, arrest em', and send em' with the rest of the terrorists to Guantanamo Bay. Oh yeah, I forgot, that would be too ‘cruel.’ We should welcome them with open arms into our neighborhoods.” Cox warned, “Friends, these threats are real. Americans are concerned, and they're buyin' guns. So let’s give credit where credit’s due: In these tough times, the Obama administration deserves credit for the only part of the economy that’s goin’ strong—gun sales.” Finally, Cox told a story that “sums up the sorry state of affairs in [Washington,] D.C.”: “It’s 2006. Melroy Cort [an Iraq War veteran who had both legs amputated] and his wife are driving from their home in Ohio to Maryland. They drive through Washington, D.C. to get there. Melroy has a valid Ohio [concealed handgun] permit and he's carrying his 9mm in the car for protection. While driving through D.C., they get a flat tire, and pull over to fix it. Concerned, he takes his gun from the car and puts it in his jacket. Someone sees it happen and dials 911. Within minutes, the police show up and arrest him ... Now let me tell you a little something about D.C. If neighbors call 911 about some crack deal in progress there’s a 50/50 chance they’ll even send someone. But when a Marine Corporal –confined to a wheelchair because of his service to our country—strays into D.C. with his legally owned firearm they can’t put him in jail fast enough. And that’s our nation’s capital for ya. If you’re a gun owner, they put you in jail. But if you’re Mayor, and get caught smoking crack, they put you on the City Council.” The latter reference was to former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, who went on to serve on the D.C. City Council.

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    On May 16, 2009, in a speech at the NRA Convention in Phoenix, Cox stated, “The sanctity of the Second Amendment, all of our rights, all of our freedom, is in your hands. Freedom calls you to her defense now more than ever before because she's under attack like never before.” This was because of the appointments/confirmations of Rahm Emanuel as White House Chief-of-Staff, Eric Holder as U.S. Attorney General, and Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State, Cox explained. “We all know what to expect from our opponents,” he said, “They exploit tragedies. But to be honest with you, I never thought they’d pick an international tragedy. And as you've seen— that's exactly what they're doing with Mexico ... It’s been estimated that 100,000 Mexican soldiers have deserted the military in recent years to go work for the cartels. This is Mexico's problem. But the media and anti-gun politicians want us to believe that one more American gun control law or some international agreement will turn these ruthless murderers into boy scouts. You have got to be kiddin' me! We need to find 'em, arrest em', and send em' with the rest of the terrorists to Guantanamo Bay. Oh yeah, I forgot, that would be too ‘cruel.’ We should welcome them with open arms into our neighborhoods.” Cox warned, “Friends, these threats are real. Americans are concerned, and they're buyin' guns. So let’s give credit where credit’s due: In these tough times, the Obama administration deserves credit for the only part of the economy that’s goin’ strong—gun sales.” Finally, Cox told a story that “sums up the sorry state of affairs in [Washington,] D.C.”: “It’s 2006. Melroy Cort [an Iraq War veteran who had both legs amputated] and his wife are driving from their home in Ohio to Maryland. They drive through Washington, D.C. to get there. Melroy has a valid Ohio [concealed handgun] permit and he's carrying his 9mm in the car for protection. While driving through D.C., they get a flat tire, and pull over to fix it. Concerned, he takes his gun from the car and puts it in his jacket. Someone sees it happen and dials 911. Within minutes, the police show up and arrest him ... Now let me tell you a little something about D.C. If neighbors call 911 about some crack deal in progress there’s a 50/50 chance they’ll even send someone. But when a Marine Corporal –confined to a wheelchair because of his service to our country—strays into D.C. with his legally owned firearm they can’t put him in jail fast enough. And that’s our nation’s capital for ya. If you’re a gun owner, they put you in jail. But if you’re Mayor, and get caught smoking crack, they put you on the City Council.” The latter reference was to former D.C. Mayor Marion Barry, who went on to serve on the D.C. City Council.

    Sources [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

  • Conspiracy Theory

    Sources [1] [2]

  • Republican Party (GOP)

    Sources [1] [2]