There about 18,000 police districts in the United States. One must note the article was cleverly written to make it seem all 18,000 support this measure. This is pure Bravo Sierra.
"The letter from the International Association of Chiefs of Police, representing 18,000 police departments across the United States"
They do represent 18,000 police departments but that does not mean 18,000 are in agreement. If you want to know the truth ask a cop in the street or patrol what he thinks about law abiding citizens carrying firearms. With rare exceptions they support the second amendment.
I live out in the countryside. There are 5 private firing ranges within one mile and one is on my land. My neighbors are responsible law abiding citizens. When I hear gunfire it does not frighten me. It is the sound of freedom. When I hear gunfire that I can not identify I have been known to drive over just to see what the hell they are shooting. Without exception I have been invited to shoot it. I love where I live in Texas.
I have been shooting since I was 12 years old. When I was 13 I was allowed to have my own weapon (22 bolt action Remington nylon) in my bedroom and the ammunition. I am 69 years old today and have never raised a weapon in anger and fortunately not in self defense. I would if necessary.
Not all. In my little town north of Ft Worth, the former police chief (since retired) would give CCW classes. For residents, it was free. Outsite folks paid a nominal fee. He figured the more of the good guys that were licensed to carry, the better it was for his officers.