DOJ Picks a Fight with Denver

Published on May 5, 2026
Duration: 11:08

This video details the U.S. Department of Justice's challenge to Denver's municipal ban on 'assault weapons,' specifically AR-15 style semi-automatic rifles. It highlights the DOJ's argument that such bans violate the Second Amendment by prohibiting arms in common use for lawful purposes. The video also covers Denver's response, which dismisses the DOJ's claims and asserts the ban's effectiveness and legality, citing favorable appellate court rulings on similar bans.

Quick Summary

The U.S. Department of Justice is challenging Denver's municipal ban on 'assault weapons,' arguing it violates the Second Amendment by prohibiting firearms in common use. Denver has responded by calling the DOJ's request baseless and citing its own crime reduction successes and favorable court precedents on similar bans.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction: DOJ Picks a Fight with Denver
  2. 00:54DOJ Letter to Denver Explained
  3. 01:18Denver's Municipal Ban on 'Assault Weapons'
  4. 02:01Second Amendment Rights and Common Use
  5. 02:52DOJ Files Complaint in Federal Court
  6. 03:19DOJ Proposes Pre-Suit Negotiations
  7. 04:05Deadline for Denver's Response
  8. 04:54Denver's Response to DOJ
  9. 05:28Denver's Argument: Baseless Overreach
  10. 05:37Denver Claims Progress in Crime Reduction
  11. 06:00Legal Arguments: Circuit Splits and Precedent
  12. 07:36Challenge to 34 USC Section 12601 Interpretation
  13. 08:08Text of 34 USC Section 12601
  14. 09:39Denver's Rejection of DOJ's Offer
  15. 09:54DOJ's Role in Protecting Gun Rights
  16. 10:15Links to DOJ and Denver Documents
  17. 10:25Contact Washington Gun Law for Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the U.S. Department of Justice's stance on Denver's assault weapon ban?

The DOJ has challenged Denver's municipal ban on 'assault weapons,' arguing it violates the Second Amendment by prohibiting firearms in common use for lawful purposes. They have threatened to file a lawsuit if Denver does not agree to negotiations to repeal the ban.

How has Denver responded to the DOJ's challenge?

Denver's city attorney called the DOJ's request 'baseless, irresponsible, and a clear overreach.' The city claims its ban has been effective for 37 years, contributing to reduced crime, and cites favorable appellate court rulings on similar bans.

What legal basis is the DOJ using to challenge Denver's ban?

The DOJ is using 34 United States Code section 12601, which allows the federal government to take civil action against authorities engaging in patterns or practices that deprive individuals of their constitutional rights, including Second Amendment rights.

What are the potential outcomes of the DOJ's action against Denver?

If Denver does not engage in pre-suit negotiations by May 5th, 2026, the DOJ may file a federal lawsuit. The goal is to have Denver cease enforcement, acknowledge the ban's unconstitutionality, and agree to a permanent injunction against similar bans.

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