Times are reportedly rough for the National Rifle Association. And Americans are responding in an appropriate—and entertaining—way.
According to a recent Rolling Stone report, the gun lobbying organization is dealing with serious financial challenges that will potentially lead to its demise. The NRA has reportedly filed a lawsuit against New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, claiming the state government initiated a “blacklisting campaign” that pressured insurance companies and financial entities to cut ties with their group. The NRA says the so-called “campaign” has resulted in “tens of millions of dollars in damages” that could jeopardize the organization’s future.
According to The Hill, the suit stems from a decision made by the New York Department of Financial Services regarding the NRA-branded insurance policy Carry Guard. Regulators determined the NRA was illegally selling policies that would cover gun-owners’ legal fees after they used their weapons for “acts of intentional wrongdoing.”
The NRA claims the state of New York also pressured other insurance companies to cut ties with their organization.
The complaint, which was filed in July, reads in part:
Directed by Governor Andrew Cuomo, this campaign involves selective prosecution, backroom exhortations, and public threats with a singular goal – to deprive the NRA and its constituents of their First Amendment rights to speak freely about gun-related issues and defend the Second Amendment […]Insurance coverage is necessary for the NRA to continue its existence as a not-for- profit organization and fulfill its advocacy objectives. Without appropriate media coverage, for example, there is a substantial risk that NRATV will be forced to cease operating; moreover, the NRA could be forced to cease circulation of various print publications and magazines.
So how are people on the internet responding to this delightful news? By sending the NRA “thoughts and prayers”—you know, the same bullshit support the group and many other gun-loving conservatives constantly offer to victims of gun violence.
We appreciate the pettiness.
