Editorial: Assault-weapons ban gets an unlikely ally

Monday, May 12, 2003 | 9:26 a.m.

Last week Senate Democrats introduced legislation to renew the ban on assault weapons that Congress passed in 1994. The original law contained a sunset provision, requiring that it expire within 10 years. It's not going to be easy getting the assault-weapons ban renewed, however, especially with the National Rifle Association's influence with Republicans, who control the Senate and the House.

There is some hope, though, from an unlikely source. President Bush, despite the NRA's strong support for his pro-gun policies, has said he would sign into law legislation that renews the ban. Politics very well may be involved as Bush tries to expand his base by courting moderate voters who strongly support the popular gun-control law, but we're heartened by the president's support nonetheless. It is disappointing, however, that administration officials say the president won't actively lobby to get the bill passed. The president shouldn't stay on the sidelines -- doing so could result in the bill's defeat. He should show real leadership on the issue and make it clear to Congress that this legislation is needed to help keep these deadly weapons off our streets.