Following the attempted assassination of President Reagan (1911–2004), Bob Hope announced that he was in favor of handgun registration. “I think the violence today is a concern of every citizen,” he stated, “and I am now for gun control.” In response, the National Rifle Association criticized Hope, while Senator Edward M. Kennedy (1932–2009) offered to work with him to generate public support. Hope urged President Reagan to support gun control legislation, but related, “He shies away from it.” Fans expressed both outrage and delight at Hope’s stance.