NRA seems powerful. But it’s disorganized and easily played, says ‘Misfire’ author

The NRA was founded in 1871 as a way to promote marksmanship among soldiers. But during the 1977 annual convention, a group of NRA members revolted, kicked out certain executives, and decided to hone in on political advocacy. Author Tim Mak says those actions helped shape the NRA that we know today.

The NRA was founded in 1871 as a way to promote marksmanship among soldiers. But during the 1977 annual convention, a group of NRA members revolted, kicked out certain executives, and decided to hone in on political advocacy. Author Tim Mak says those actions helped shape the NRA that we know today. Photo by Shutterstock.

The story of the National Rifle Association involves infighting and backstabbing, million-dollar corruption, and a red-headed Russian spy. Little did the organization know, Donald Trump’s election would trigger their downfall. NPR’s Tim Mak chronicles it all in his new book called “Misfire.” 

The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments today on a Mississippi law that bans abortions after 15 weeks. The six conservative justices seem ready to uphold that law, overturning the precedent established in Roe v Wade in 1973. 

And KCRW’s Evan Kleiman offers food-related gift ideas for this holiday. 

From this Episode:

Credits

Host:

Madeleine Brand

Producers:

Sarah Sweeney, Angie Perrin, Michell Eloy, Amy Ta, Brian Hardzinski, Bennett Purser