Only a flesh wound: Is the perceived decline of the National Rifle Association real?

Abstract

The focus of this thesis is to examine the National Rifle Association's current status in light of claims that its influence has seriously declined. I contend that, while it has suffered a series of minor setbacks in the past fifteen years, the NRA has remained a powerful lobbying force. In fact, the apparent "defeats" in Congress have been a rallying point for both the leadership and rank and file membership of the NRA. Simply put, the NRA is thriving on the conflicts it helps create.