We Told ABC News The Second Amendment Protects The First

Published on January 30, 2026
Duration: 5:29

This video from Gun Owners of America (GOA) features Senior VP Erich Pratt discussing the intersection of the First and Second Amendments, particularly in the context of protests. Pratt argues that the right to peacefully assemble and protest includes the right to be armed, citing historical examples like the Deacons for Defense. The discussion addresses the Alex Pretti shooting and draws parallels to the Kyle Rittenhouse case, questioning political hypocrisy on gun rights.

Quick Summary

Gun Owners of America (GOA) asserts that the Second Amendment protects the right to protest while armed, arguing that peaceful assembly and bearing arms are not mutually exclusive. Citing historical examples like the Deacons for Defense, GOA emphasizes the constitutional right to armed protest.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Alex Pretti Shooting Response & Gun Rights
  2. 00:34Constitutional Rights: Armed Protest Explained
  3. 01:03Historical Context: Deacons for Defense
  4. 02:22Call for Investigation & Transparency
  5. 03:01Comparison to Kyle Rittenhouse Case
  6. 04:03Political Hypocrisy on Gun Rights

Frequently Asked Questions

How do the First and Second Amendments relate to protests?

Gun Owners of America argues that the First Amendment right to peacefully assemble and protest is protected by the Second Amendment's right to bear arms. This means individuals have the constitutional right to protest while lawfully armed.

What is the Gun Owners of America's stance on armed protest?

GOA asserts that peaceful protest and the right to carry firearms are not mutually exclusive. They believe the Second Amendment supports the right to be armed during public demonstrations, citing historical examples.

What historical examples support the right to armed protest?

Erich Pratt of GOA references the Deacons for Defense from the 1960s, a group that used firearms to protect peaceful civil rights protesters. This historical precedent is used to illustrate the long-standing concept of armed assembly.

How does the Alex Pretti shooting relate to gun rights discussions?

The shooting of Alex Pretti in Minnesota, where he reportedly had a concealed carry permit, has prompted GOA to emphasize that exercising Second Amendment rights, including carrying a firearm, is lawful during protests.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Gun Owners of America

View all →