The National Rifle Association annual convention is underway with the steely gaze of 80,000 members and enthusiasts focused on the November presidential election.
Presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump has promised to do away with gun-free zones as president, a message he's likely to deliver again when he speaks at Friday's Leadership Forum.
But on the other side is Hillary Clinton, who has vowed to push for stricter gun laws across the board.
At stake is the Supreme Court vacancy left by the death of Antonin Scalia.
"Our supporters really understand the importance of a Supreme Court nominee in terms of their rights. They make the connection," an NRA Spokeswoman Jennifer Baker told
The Guardian. "The stakes have never been higher than they have been in terms of this election."
Though the NRA has yet to endorse a candidate for president, Baker said they are keyed in on one principle — #NeverHillary.
The former secretary of state, who just last month said there are too many guns on our streets and neighborhoods, would pursue again a ban on assault weapons. She also wants to repeal a 2005 law that shields gun sellers from liability, The Guardian reports.
Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin are also scheduled to speak at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville on Friday. And country star Toby Keith will perform Saturday.
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