[j_k_l]

MAYBE the NRA should...hedge their bets between the two parties rather than be merely seen as a knee-jerk arm of the GOP.

The dems want nothing to do with the NRA. That is like saying...

MAYBE the Blacks should join the KKK

[VasilyZaitsev]

Actually, the socially conservative, "blue collar" wing of the DNC continues to have good relationships with the NRA. Rep. John Dingell (D) of Michigan is a classic example of an NRA supported Democrat.

Let me emphasize the point that it was those pro-life, pro-gun, working class, "Reagan Democrats" who delivered the critical swing votes that insured the presidency for Dubya in 2000. Though Bush will once again get the single issue pro-life voters next year, the pro-gun voters will be a lot more problematic unless Bush's current White House political advisors are replaced with those who oppose renewal the 1994 assault weapons ban, and Bush himself states he will NOT sign that bill.