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VCU Poll: Virginians Split on Arming Teachers

Virginia Commonwealth University

The General Assembly will consider several pieces of gun safety legislation. But, a poll from Virginia Commonwealth University shows Virginians don’t have a clear-cut opinion on some of those issues.

At least one school division in Virginia has considered arming its teachers to protect students.

According to the poll from VCU’s Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Virginians are split on the issue.

Robyn McDougle helped conduct the survey.

“About 47% of Virginians agree that arming school personnel is a good idea, while 49% disagree. So, with our margin of error, we really say that is an equally divided Commonwealth on the idea of educating, training and arming teachers and school personnel.”

Read More: In Lee County, Arming Teachers Seems Like the Only Option Left

There was more of a consensus when it came to allowing guns at public events, like festivals or concerts.

“62% of our respondents said that they believe that maintaining public safety, which means that individuals should not be allowed to carry firearms at public events, is the most important issue.”

That compares to just 28% who said protecting 2nd Amendment rights was more important than prioritizing public safety.

Nick Gilmore is a meteorologist, news producer and reporter/anchor for RADIO IQ.
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