JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The National Rifle Association of America issued its first statement since the elementary school massacre in Connecticut thrust the gun control debate into the national spotlight.
Here is the statement in its entirety:
The National Rifle Association of America is made up of four million moms and dads, sons and daughters - and we were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders in Newtown.
Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.
The NRA is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help make sure this never happens again.
The NRA is planning a major announcement during a news conference this Friday in Washington, D.C.
