Minnesota State Wire

Pete Stauber, the state representative for Minnesota District 8, expressed his support for legislation aimed at protecting firearm retailers and defending the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.

"I recently toured a gun shop in Pillager called Founder Arms and spoke with the owner and employees about the bills I have supported in Congress to ensure stores like this one can continue to serve law-abiding citizens," said Stauber. "I will always support the 2nd Amendment!"

In 2023, Representative Stauber co-sponsored federal legislation to bolster gun rights and safeguard firearm retailers. This included H.R. 1508, known as the Traveler’s Gun Rights Act, and H.R. 1478, the Federal Firearm Licensee Act. According to the House Small Business Committee and Congress.gov, Stauber also opposed an ATF rule that expanded dealer licensing requirements, arguing it infringed on lawful private sales.

As of 2024, Minnesota hosts hundreds of federally licensed firearm dealers, contributing significantly to the broader U.S. gun industry. This sector supports approximately 383,000 jobs and generated over $886 million in excise tax revenue that year. The National Shooting Sports Foundation notes that these taxes fund wildlife conservation efforts and underscore the substantial economic impact of the firearm retail sector in states like Minnesota.

A survey conducted by Pew Research Center in 2024 indicated that 51% of Americans prioritize protecting gun rights, while 48% advocate for stricter gun control measures. The data also highlighted a pronounced partisan divide: 83% of Republicans emphasize gun rights compared to 79% of Democrats who favor increased regulation. These public opinion trends continue to influence congressional debates and voting on Second Amendment legislation.

Stauber has consistently voted against gun control measures since representing Minnesota’s 8th District as a Republican starting in 2019. According to his official House website and reports by the Duluth News Tribune, he opposed H.R. 8 and H.R. 1446, which proposed expanded background checks and restrictions on firearm purchases. His voting record underscores his commitment to supporting gun rights.