Has Walmart changed the debate on firearms?

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The debate about guns in this country is, in a word, stagnant.

But what would happen if something outside of politics changed the way Congress – especially the Republicans in Congress, who generally voted in concert with the National Rifle Association to oppose any further limitation of firearms – think about what can be done in terms of common law – meaning of firearms laws?

"We encourage the leaders of our country to go forward, to strengthen background checks and to remove weapons from those who are determined to represent imminent danger." Congress and the administration must act. Given our decades of experience in the sale of firearms, we also propose to serve as a resource in the national debate on responsible firearms sales. "

It's quite a statement. McMillon says, in essence, that the private sector is doing its part to combat the epidemic of gun violence in the country and that it is now time for elected officials to mobilize to do the same. (Walmart follows Dick's Sporting Goods by announcing his decision to reduce sales of firearms and ammunition in some of his stores.)

And Walmart is not just any chain of stores in America. It is a gigantic conglomerate with roots in many rural and suburban areas where President Donald Trump did well in 2016 and is represented by Republicans in Congress. When Walmart speaks, these members of Congress, in general, listen. And what Walmart did with its gesture this week on guns and ammunition is to provide at least some of the NRA's coverage to congressional Republicans who want to do something about the state of the laws on firearms in the country.

When asked about the move on Wednesday, Trump said, "It's up to Walmart to play, hey, they're very smart, they've had a fantastic quarter, they've just announced huge numbers."

Asked about the movement of ammunition and firearms, Trump replied, "They should talk to them," adding, "They can do what they have to do."

Is it possible that Walmart's decision does not change the ideas at the Republican congressional conference about what they may be in terms of gun control measures? Sure! But we have never seen such an undertaking from a company as important or perceived by the public – politicians or others – who has fiercely opposed any gun control legislation.

Point: Walmart is a free radical in this gun control experience. It can sparkle. But it could also serve as a catalyst for real movement on an issue that has been stagnant for years.

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