Recent reports reveal a significant rise in gun ownership among liberals, with 29% of Democrats or those leaning Democrat owning firearms in 2022, up from 22% in 2010. This shift is attributed to growing concerns over personal safety in light of rising crime and political unrest, as many liberals feel increasingly threatened by street crime and right-wing extremism. Experts note that traditional gun culture has been dominated by conservative men, but new gun groups are forming to cater to minorities and progressives. Despite the increase in ownership, many liberal gun owners remain uncomfortable with the stigma surrounding firearms within their political circles, often choosing not to disclose their ownership. Notably, over half of the recent buyers among Democrats are first-time owners, and discussions around personal safety are reshaping the narrative around gun ownership within the party. The trend marks a departure from the Democrats' historical stance advocating for stricter gun control measures.