A deadly epidemic overshadowing President Biden's first 100 days has been mass shootings from day to day, coast to coast, affecting both urban and rural communities.
Why it matters: The United States continues to grapple with whether and how to change its gun laws. Biden is expected to urge Congress to pass anti-gun violence legislation in tonight's address. He's already ordered flags to be flown at half-staff three times in response to shootings in Boulder, Colorado, and Indianapolis as well as in and near Atlanta.
- The president also has issued executive actions, directing his administration to implement new rules addressing access to guns.
By the numbers: Last year, there were more than 600 mass shootings, according to Gun Violence Archive — the most since at least 2014.
- Since Biden took office on Jan. 20, more than 700 people have been injured or killed in 139 mass shootings.
What to watch: Gun purchases continue to spike, driven in part by first-time gun owners. Last month set a new record for firearm background checks at nearly 4.7 million, according to FBI statistics.
- Gun background checks had already surged 40% in 2020, compared to 2019.
Of note: Axios Sneak Peek is counting down to Biden’s 100th day in office on Friday with data-driven analyses of the administration's accomplishments and challenges each day this week.
