The National Rifle Association launched a new advertising campaign called “BE READY,” which urges law-abiding Americans to safely and responsibly exercise their Second Amendment rights in the face of escalating dangers.
The ad focuses on urgent warnings from government officials about active Iranian terror cells and lone wolf terrorists operating within the U.S., as seen in recent terror-related attacks.
Recent incidents include deadly shootings at a bar in Austin, Texas, an attack at Old Dominion University in Virginia, and the targeted vehicle-ramming assault on a synagogue in Michigan.
The “BE READY” campaign, the NRA said, highlights the vital need for personal protection in an increasingly uncertain world and offers glaring imagery and real-world examples.
The ad calls on Americans to carry responsibly and stay vigilant, while telling viewers that the right to self-defense is not just a privilege but a fundamental necessity.
“As threats to our safety multiply — from terror cells and radicalized attackers to violent criminals set loose by lenient policies — innocent, law-abiding citizens face increased dangers on all fronts,” said NRA CEO Doug Hamlin.
“While these threats escalate, as we’ve tragically seen in recent attacks in Texas, Virginia, Michigan, and beyond, progressive politicians continue pushing agendas to disarm us, stripping away our ability to defend our families and communities.”
The ad will run across digital platforms and social media, reaching millions to promote firearm safety, training and the importance of concealed carry laws.
GOP advised to run on abortion issue in the midterms
Pro-life group the Susan B. Anthony List is pointing to a recent poll showing few Americans approve of limitless abortion as evidence that Republicans can win on the abortion issue in this year’s midterm elections.
The latest national survey by Pew Research Center revealed that the percentage of Americans who believe abortion should be “legal in all cases” dropped to its lowest point since 2019, dropping to 23% from an all-time high of 29% after the 2022 Supreme Court decision that struck down Roe v. Wade.
Generally, 76% of Americans think there should be some restrictions on abortion, according to Pew’s American Trends Panel survey of more than 8,500 respondents, which was conducted in January.
SBA Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser said, “Outside of the Democratic Party elite, abortion on demand any time for any reason is a repellent, fringe position. The latest national poll shows it’s even less popular now than when then-Virginia Governor Ralph Northam came out for infanticide.”
Ms. Dannenfelser noted that the trend is clear and backed up repeatedly, so Republicans should feel confident to run on pro-life issues this campaign season.
“From 2022-2025, there was a 9-point drop in support for abortion on demand. Among young adults in particular, many of whom are surely inspired by the example of Charlie Kirk,” she said.
“These polling trends should embolden pro-life Republicans to go on offense and expose the extremism of the other side. In this critical midterm year with control of the House and Senate at stake, the GOP must not leave this most potent issue for passionate base voters off the table. The ’ostrich strategy’ is neither morally sound nor politically smart.”
Activists hail Virginia’s pro-migrant bills
The Virginia General Assembly’s passage of various bills solidifying the state’s sanctuary status was lauded by We Are CASA and fellow pro-migrant activists.
The General Assembly, which wrapped up its 2026 session last week, passed eight separate measures to welcome and safeguard migrants at schools, courts, public services and workplaces.
“This is an incredibly powerful, profound and defining moment for our immigrant and working-class families across Virginia,” said Luis Aguilar, Virginia Director for We Are CASA. “Today’s votes show what is possible when our families share their stories and demand policies that respect their dignity and humanity. A united majority in the Virginia General Assembly listened — and in doing so, chose to stand on the right side of history.”
The legislative package, known as the Community Safety and Trust Agenda, includes legislation limiting 287(g) agreements under which law enforcement join federal agents in enforcing immigration laws.
It would also prevent state and local police from cooperating with federal immigration authorities, place restrictions on where federal immigration authorities can make arrests, such as courthouses and schools, and ban all law enforcement from wearing facemasks while engaged in the performance of official duties.
Club for Growth backs Hern for U.S. Senate
Club for Growth PAC has thrown its support behind Republican Rep. Kevin Hern in the U.S. Senate race in Oklahoma to replace Sen. Markwayne Mullin.
President Trump tapped Mr. Mullin, a Republican, for Secretary of Homeland Security following the ouster of Kristi Noem from that post.
Mr. Hern, who has a lifetime Club for Growth rating of 92% based on his voting record. Mr. Mullin has a lifetime rating of 77%.
“Rep. Kevin Hern has consistently voted against debt limit increases, omnibus spending bills, and wasteful government spending. He’s the ideal candidate to represent Oklahomans in the Senate,” said Club for Growth PAC President David McIntosh. “In the Senate, Hern will continue fighting for limited government and election integrity, strengthening the Republican Senate conference. Club for Growth PAC is proud to endorse him in the race.”
Mr. Trump initially endorsed Mr. Hern, who was first elected to the House in 2018 following a career as a McDonald’s franchise owner, and described him as “a true friend of MAGA” in a social media post on Friday night.
• The Advocates column is a weekly look at the political action players who drive the debate and shape policy outcomes in Washington. Send tips to theadvocates@washingtontimes.com.
