Border Patrol Shooting Sparks Debate Over Police Gun Use

Gun control advocates argue that guns in the hands of police make people less safe, but critics say officers need firearms to apprehend violent criminals.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:40pm

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A recent incident in Portland, Oregon, where a Border Patrol agent shot and wounded two members of a violent gang, has reignited the debate over gun control and police use of firearms. Gun control groups like Brady United and Moms Demand Action have argued that "police violence is gun violence" and have called for disarming both civilians and law enforcement. However, critics argue that taking away guns from police would make it harder for them to apprehend dangerous criminals and protect public safety.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the broader tensions between gun control advocates who want to limit firearm access and those who believe law enforcement needs guns to effectively do their jobs. The outcome could have significant implications for public safety and the role of police in communities.

The details

In the Portland incident, Border Patrol agents encountered two Venezuelan nationals with ties to the violent Tran de Aragua gang and allegedly tried to run over the agents with their vehicle. One agent opened fire, wounding the two suspects. Gun control groups like Brady United and Moms Demand Action have argued that "police violence is gun violence" and have called for disarming both civilians and law enforcement, claiming that guns do not make anyone safer. However, critics argue that taking away guns from police would hamper their ability to apprehend dangerous criminals and protect public safety.

  • On January 1, 2026, a Border Patrol agent in Portland shot and wounded two Venezuelan nationals who allegedly tried to run over the agents with their vehicle.

The players

Kris Brown

President of Brady United, a gun control advocacy group.

Shannon Watts

President of Moms Demand Action, a gun control advocacy group.

Gabby Giffords

Co-founder of the Giffords Law Center, a gun control advocacy group.

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What they’re saying

“We don't know the details behind the shootings of 2 people by a Border Patrol agent in Portland. But I know one thing for certain: whether in the hands of federal officers or everyday Americans, guns do not make us safer.”

— Kris Brown, President, Brady United

“Police violence is gun violence and that's why our movement must be responsive as well.”

— Shannon Watts, President, Moms Demand Action

“Police violence is gun violence.”

— Gabby Giffords

What’s next

The debate over police use of firearms is likely to continue, with gun control advocates pushing for further restrictions and critics arguing that disarming law enforcement would compromise public safety.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between gun control advocates who want to limit firearm access and those who believe law enforcement needs guns to effectively protect public safety. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications for the role of police in communities.