The president has named Vice President Joe Biden to lead an effort to propose gun law reforms. He also called for background investigations for anyone buying weapons from a private dealer.

No matter how hard the president tries, he will face opposition from gun rights activists. The second amendment to the Constitution protects the right of Americans to carry and use arms.

The 4,000,000 member National Rifle Association is one of the most influential organizations in the United States. On Friday, the NRA’s chief executive, Wayne LaPierre, told reporters that armed guards can prevent tragedies like the one in Newtown.

“The only way -- they only way -- to stop a monster from killing our kids is to be personally involved and invested in a plan of absolute protection. The only thing that stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun.”

Mr. LaPierre blamed movies and video games for creating a violent culture for children.

The NRA has protected the rights of gun owners for over 140 years. The group is widely recognized as a major political force. Observers say the NRA spends millions of dollars on television advertising and campaign donations every year to influence members of Congress.

One thing the NRA cannot control is the sale of gun manufacturers. This week, an American investment company announced plans to sell the manufacturer of the rifle reportedly used in the school shooting.