Gun ownership and freedom of speech are natural allies but the respective institutions, NRA and ACLU, are anything but that.
In a surprising alliance, the National Rifle Association (NRA) and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), often at odds on ideological grounds, are joining forces in a legal battle before the U.S. Supreme Court. The ACLU, based in New York, announced its intention to represent the NRA in a First Amendment case against the state’s Department of Financial Services. Despite strong disagreements with the NRA’s mission and stance on gun rights, the ACLU emphasized its commitment to defending the principle that government authorities should not penalize organizations based on ideological differences. In a statement shared on social media, the ACLU clarified that while they vehemently oppose the NRA’s goals, strategies, and tactics, they recognize the importance of preventing government officials from punishing groups due to disapproval of their viewpoints.
The NRA, reciprocating the sentiment, expressed pride in standing alongside the ACLU and others who share the belief that regulatory authority should not be wielded to suppress political speech.
The unusual collaboration underscores a shared commitment to protecting the First Amendment rights of organizations, even in the face of profound ideological disagreements.
