To pass a particular law requires wide spectrum support. In this case, support of law enforce-
ment and the national population as a whole lead to the passage of the bill that limits clips in excess of ten rounds and bans the manufacture of 1 5 types of assault weapons. 

A national survey of 18,857 people provided the following statistics that indicate the level of support the bill received. 

61 % approved ofthe ban despite the fact that only 30% believe the ban will actually reduce crime. 

Women supported the ban 77% compared to 59% men. 

Support held when age groups favoring the ban were compared.

45 and up 26 to 44 years 25 and under

66% in favor 57% in favor 60% in favor

Do you support the assault weapons ban? 

61%  38%  1%

yes oppose not sure

The bill bans 19 assault type weapons but authorizes 650 weapons. Would you like to see more guns banned, less banned, or is this enough?

54%  10%  36%

would like more guns banned felt this ban was enough opposed any ban

Will the ban reduce crime? 30% yes, it will reduce crime?

21%  13%  36%

not sure if crime will be reduced  no, but I still support the ban  I oppose the ban

Of the 61 % favoring the ban, 86 % supported extending the ban to cover more guns. 

Of the 61 % favoring the ban;

48%  34%  18%

believe it will reduce crime  support the ban but are not sure what effect it will have on crime  believe it will have not effect on crime but support the ban

National surveys often sway the vote of an elected representative. In a close 216 - 214 vote in the house of representatives, several elected officials attributed a yes vote to the national polls indicating America was ready for a change.