4 chapters across the catalog
Al Sharpton, Automatic Weapons Misconception, Gun Lobby
Al Sharpton is criticized for claiming on MSNBC that civilians can legally acquire "automatic military-style weapons." The hosts point out that automatic weapons have been heavily restricted since 1934 and are not used in these shootings. They argue that Sharpton and other pundits are intentionally spreading misinformation to inflame the gun control debate.
President Barack Obama announced plans to bypass Congress through executive actions aimed at reducing gun violence. The measures include expanding the definition of gun sellers to trigger more background checks and tracking lost or stolen firearms. Critics point out that national gun violence rates have been falling since the 1990s despite the administration's urgent rhetoric.
Adam Curry critiques CNN International's coverage of the gun debate, specifically focusing on host Piers Morgan. A clip is played featuring Morgan arguing with an NRA representative and Congressman Gary Ackerman. Morgan is criticized for his aggressive stance on gun control and his past involvement in the British phone-hacking scandal.
Militarization of the American State and Media Violence
The hosts argue that the United States has become a militaristic state, citing President Obama's "kill list" and frequent drone strikes. They suggest that the prevalence of violent entertainment, including movies and video games, contributes to a culture of violence. They contrast the government's push for gun control with the heavy presence of armed soldiers seen in media coverage of domestic tragedies.
