During a press conference in the Oval Office on Wednesday, President Donald Trump discussed ongoing conversations about state reciprocity regarding concealed carry laws, alongside FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi.
A reporter raised the issue of state reciprocity, using Washington, D.C., as a reference point. The question centered on whether there have been efforts to simplify the process for carrying firearms in the capital for self-defense purposes.
Specifically, the reporter inquired, “Would it be possible to apply national concealed carry rules to D.C., similar to holding a Texas driver’s license and permit?”
Trump responded, “They’ve been discussing it for quite some time. It’s an interesting topic, and there are strong feelings on both sides, but we are indeed looking into it.”
Back in 2015, while campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination, Trump asserted that “concealed carry is a right, not a privilege.”
In a position paper he stated that the pursuit of public recognition for this right is essential.
Your right to self-defense doesn’t end at your property line. This is why I possess a concealed carry permit, just like millions of Americans. Such a permit should be recognized in all 50 states. Since driver’s licenses are honored across the nation, it stands to reason that concealed carry permits should be too. Driving is a privilege, but concealed carry is a right.
During the 2020 campaign, Trump maintained his support for state reciprocity. When asked in an interview about the disparity between recognition of state driver’s licenses and concealed carry permits, he affirmed, “Yes,” he would support the National Reciprocity Act to facilitate travel for lawful gun owners.
Following the 2024 election, reports indicated that Trump reiterated his commitment to national reciprocity.
Congressman Richard Hudson (R) has introduced the National Reciprocity Act, designated as HR 38, and it reportedly has bipartisan backing.
