In the wake of mass shootings, Trump advocated for strengthening background checks. But now, it’s clear these were just empty words. Trump had the opportunity to put his money where his mouth is, and instead said he would veto bipartisan legislation.

THEN: Trump repeatedly said that he would support legislation to strengthen background checks for gun purchases.

Trump: “Whether we are Republican or Democrat, we must now focus on strengthening Background Checks!”

Trump: “Very strong improvement and strengthening of background checks will be fully backed by White House.”

Trump: “I will be strongly pushing Comprehensive Background Checks with an emphasis on Mental Health.”

THEN: Trump said the only reason lawmakers wouldn’t support strengthening background checks is because they’re afraid of the NRA.

Trump: “The background checks are so important. People are afraid to do background checks because you’re afraid of somebody. And you know what?  You’re going to be more popular if you do — if you have a strong, good — but I don’t care who’s endorsing you or not endorsing you, you’re going to be more popular if that’s what you’re into.”

Trump: “You guys — half of you are so afraid of the NRA. There’s nothing to be afraid of. And you know what? If they’re not with you, we have to fight them every once and a while… But sometimes we’re going to have to be very tough and we’re going to have to fight them. But we need strong background checks.”

Trump: “But you have to very, very powerful on background checks; don’t be shy.”

NOW: Trump has threatened to veto bipartisan legislation to expand background checks for gun purchases.

The Hill: “The White House on Monday issued a statement warning that President Trump would veto proposed legislation to enhance background checks for gun purchases if it passes the House and Senate. The legislation in question, H.R. 8 and H.R. 1112, would require universal background checks and close a so-called Charleston loophole that the shooter used in the 2015 massacre at a historic black church to buy a gun. One of the measures is a bipartisan bill, co-sponsored by Reps. Mike Thompson (D-Calif.) and Pete King (R-N.Y.).”