The public’s attitudes toward gun control have shown only modest change in the wake of the recent deadly shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut

Support for gun control remains lower than before Obama took office. In April 2008, 58% said that it was more important to control gun ownership; just 37% prioritized protecting gun rights. Currently, 49% say it is more important to control gun ownership, while 42% say it is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns.