LOUISVILLE, Ky. — National Rife Association members gave presumptive GOP nominee Donald Trump a rousing response when the New York developer spoke to the organization’s annual convention Friday.
Members concerned over likely Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton as the other alternative to Trump reacted strongly when NRA’s Wayne La Pierre told them earlier Friday “You can kiss your guns goodbye” if Clinton takes the White House.
Trump introduced his sons Don and Eric who he told the audience were active hunters and said, “I promise you one thing, if I run for president and if I win, the Second Amendment will be totally protected, that I can tell you.”
The New York Republican also discussed the administration’s response to terrorism from the Middle East as well as currency manipulation in China.
Although Trump did not delve into his Second Amendment policy platforms during his remarks, he entered the stage with the official NRA endorsement behind him. Members were pleased with what Trump had to say.
“I really liked it. I really liked the way he’s becoming a good president or it sounds like he’s becoming a good president,” said an NRA member named Roger from Ohio. “He’s put forth the real means of America — not just candy coating the way Hillary Clinton is doing. So he sounds like a true down to earth American.”
“I think he hit it right on the nail. I think if Hillary Clinton gets in there, we’ll all be in trouble,” he added.
Other NRA members told The Daily Caller that they were pleased Trump seemed more presidential than in previous speeches they had seen of him.
“I thought [the speech] was very calm. I could see he was more professional in his speaking and I just really enjoyed it. I liked his humor,” said NRA member Brenda from Indiana.
“For me it’s just taking away my rights — any of my rights and that’s why I’m a member is because I don’t want any of my rights taken away,” she said.
Will Carver of Louisville told TheDC that his first choice was Texas Republican Sen. [crscore]Ted Cruz[/crscore] but he is now a full-on Trump supporter.
“I’m of the opinion that his speeches have been moderated a bit, so he’s sounding a bit more presidential. He’s not blowing up and bloviating like he used to and the whole aspect of staying calm,” said Carver.
Carver’s friends Don Smith and Terry Winthrop felt similarly. Smith’s first choice was Ohio Gov. John Kasich but he is also a Trump supporter now.
“He wasn’t my first choice either. Cruz was, but I’m supporting [Trump] now. I think he’ll be a great president,” said Smith.