Two Early Signs of Post-Shooting Political Action Today

Four days after the shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, we’re already seeing indications that seemingly intractable political barriers to gun control are being lowered. This afternoon, the sponsor of a Michigan bill that would allow concealed weapons in public schools has conceded defeat, telling the Detroit News that Republican Governor Rick Snyder will veto the bill. (Considering he’s already seen his popularity nosedive since signing a controversial right-to-work bill a week ago, Snyder may have laid off even if the bill hadn’t hit his desk the night before the Newtown shooting.) Earlier today, President Obama officially endorsed Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s forthcoming proposal to ban the sale, exchange, importation, or possession of assault weapons. Though he basically maintained such a position throughout the campaign, this is the first time he’s backed a specific proposal. [Detroit News]