Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, Inc.

Overview

Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, Inc. (RMGO) is a 501(c)(4) non-profit advocacy group based in Colorado, specializing in the defense of Second Amendment rights. Founded in 1996, RMGO is known for its aggressive lobbying strategies aimed at protecting gun rights in the state while opposing what it describes as radical anti-gun agendas. The organization positions itself as a "no-compromise" advocate for gun rights, differentiating itself from other organizations like the National Rifle Association (NRA).

History

The organization was founded by Dudley Brown, a former lobbyist for the NRA, who established RMGO due to his belief that the NRA was insufficiently aggressive in its stance against gun control. RMGO has since cultivated a reputation for its confrontational approach to advocacy, often at odds with more traditional gun rights organizations. In the wake of significant events like the Columbine High School shooting, RMGO has actively participated in national debates about gun control, emphasizing the importance of retaining gun ownership rights.

Mission and Activities

RMGO's mission focuses on:

• Defending the Second Amendment rights of individuals against perceived infringements.
• Mobilizing grassroots support to advocate for gun rights at local, state, and national levels.
• Educating the public about firearms laws and gun ownership issues.

The organization has been involved in various legislative battles, opposing measures such as background checks at gun shows and other restrictions on gun ownership. It seeks to promote legislation facilitating constitutional carry, asserting that citizens should not require permits to exercise their right to self-defense.

Conflict with Other Organizations

RMGO has experienced notable tensions with the NRA, which it accuses of compromising on essential gun rights issues. The NRA has characterized RMGO's methods as extreme, demonstrating a fundamental ideological divide between the two organizations regarding the best strategies for advocating gun rights. This rivalry has been a defining aspect of RMGO's identity and advocacy work.

Leadership

As of now, the leadership of RMGO includes:

• Dudley Brown - President
• Taylor Rhodes - Executive Director
• Barry Walter - Chairman of the Board

Membership and Financials

RMGO operates on a membership model, with options for both annual and life memberships. The organization actively encourages participation from gun rights supporters across Colorado to bolster its lobbying efforts. As of the latest financial reports, RMGO had revenues of $432,682 and expenses of $514,915, indicating its financial investment in advocacy work.

Significance

Through its grassroots approach and unwavering commitment to Second Amendment rights, Rocky Mountain Gun Owners, Inc. has established itself as a significant force in the landscape of gun rights advocacy in Colorado. Its influence is particularly pronounced in local and state-level politics, where it mobilizes supporters to engage directly with lawmakers and influence policy decisions affecting gun ownership and rights.