Gun rights advocates rally outside of Richmond’s Capitol Square Monday.
Markus Schmidt/Virginia Mercury
Supporters cite echoes of 2020 as lawmakers file new firearm legislation under Democratic trifecta
Standing just outside the iron fencing surrounding Virginia’s Capitol in downtown Richmond on Monday, Alexandria resident Gerald Vandendries hoisted a semi-automatic rifle and scanned the crowd gathering for Lobby Day — an annual ritual for gun rights supporters that carried renewed urgency this year.
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U.S. Rep. John McGuire, R-Goochland, speaks at the Virginia Citizens Defense League rally on Jan. 19, 2026.
Charlotte Rene Woods/ Virginia Mercury
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Del. Nadarius Clark, D-Suffolk, speaks at a gun safety rally on Jan. 19, 2026.
Charlotte Rene Woods/Virginia Mercury
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