Most in U.S. favor stronger background checks, longer waiting periods to buy guns

NewsWorks Tonight host Dave Heller sits down for his weekly conversation with Gallup’s Frank Newport to talk about trends in U.S. opinion.

Here are this week’s topics.

Despite divisiveness on the issue, public polling before the Parkland, Florida, massacre indicates a national consensus on stronger background checks for gun purchasers, extended waiting periods to obtain a weapon, and registration with the police.

Amid dwindling regard for many institutions, respect for the military remains high — yet, there is limited appetite to devote an additional $75 billion for defense spending.

Also, North Korea is regarded as U.S. enemy No. 1, but there is less agreement regarding other adversaries.

To hear the full conversation, listen to the audio above.