President Donald Trump said Friday he has been speaking to the NRA to make sure "their very strong views can be fully represented," in the congressional debate over background checks.
Trump tweeted Friday, almost a week after two mass shootings took place, one in Ohio and one in Texas:
"Serious discussions are taking place between House and Senate leadership on meaningful Background Checks. I have also been speaking to the NRA, and others, so that their very strong views can be fully represented and respected. Guns should not be placed in the hands of mentally ill or deranged people. I am the biggest Second Amendment person there is, but we all must work together for the good and safety of our Country. Common sense things can be done that are good for everyone!"
According to The Washington Post, NRA chief executive Wayne LaPierre warned Trump on Tuesday the background check bill would be unpopular with his supporters and argued against it. These discussions reportedly continued Wednesday.
Trump's tweet was met with skepticism from Democratic leaders like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who tweeted:
"We've seen it before, an awful shooting occurs, [Trump] expresses interest in helping. Republicans try to get him off the hook with lesser measures. Nothing happens."