Observers and lawmakers see the NRA as one of the top three most influential lobbying groups in Washington , D.C . The NRA Institute for Legislative Action ( NRA-ILA ) is its lobbying arm , which manages its political action committee ( PAC ) , the Political Victory Fund ( PVF ) . Over its history the organization has influenced legislation , participated in or initiated lawsuits , and endorsed or opposed various candidates at local , state and federal levels . The NRA has been criticized by gun control and gun rights advocacy groups , political commentators , and politicians . The organization has been the focus of intense criticism in the aftermath of high-profile shootings , such as the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting and the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting
Stoneman Douglas High School shooting
Stoneman Douglas High School shooting
National Rifle Association