More than 4 in 10 Republicans believe that mass shootings are “something we have to accept as part of a free society” according to a CBS News/YouGov poll.
In the poll, respondents were asked if they feel that mass shootings are “unfortunately something we have to accept as part of a free society” or “something we can prevent and stop if we really tried.”
44% of Republicans agree mass shootings are inevitable in a free society. Meanwhile 85% of Democrats and 73% of independents say mass shootings can be prevented and stopped if we “really tried.”
The poll comes after several recent mass shooting have reignited the debate over gun control.
A bipartisan group of senators have developed a framework for a gun control legislation following a mass shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas last month that left 19 children and two teachers dead. It includes expanding background checks and red flag laws which allow authorities to confiscate firearms from people deemed to be threats to themselves or to others. The measure also includes funding for mental health services and school security.
However, a total of 66% of Democrats, 72% of Independents, and 71% of Republicans say they think it is “not very likely” or “not at all likely” that Congress passes significant, new gun policies in the coming months.
Asked what is the cause of the partisan stalemate in Congress over gun control, respondents were split along party lines. 77% of Democrats blame influence from groups like the NRA, while 39% of Republicans say stricter gun laws do not prevent gun violence and 37% believe it goes against the 2nd amendment.
