Episode 180. Taking Back the NRA: Grassroots Reform and Resistance (w/ Ronald Andring, Sr.)

Show Notes

Episode 180. Taking Back the NRA: Grassroots Reform and Resistance (w/ Ronald Andring, Sr.)

In this episode of the Forge of Freedom podcast, host Alex Ooley speaks with Ronald Andring Sr., a dedicated member of the NRA who has been actively involved in efforts to reform the organization. Ronald shares his journey with the NRA, detailing his experiences and the issues he uncovered regarding the leadership and management of the organization. He discusses the impact of the New York Attorney General's case against the NRA, his testimony at the trial, and the importance of transparency and accountability within the board. The conversation also highlights the recent election of reform-minded candidates and the need for member engagement to ensure the NRA serves its members effectively. Ronald emphasizes the significance of addressing conflicts of interest and the necessity for the board to acknowledge past mistakes to regain trust among members. The episode concludes with a call to action for members to rejoin and support the NRA as it moves towards a more transparent and accountable future.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ronald Andring Sr.
03:00 Ronald's Journey with the NRA
06:06 Uncovering the NRA's Internal Issues
08:46 Testifying at the Trial
12:07 The Bench Trial and Its Implications
14:54 Reforming the NRA's Governance
18:03 The Impact of Recent Elections
21:06 The Future of the NRA Board
27:51 Building a Coalition for Change
32:51 Leadership Transition: Doug Hamlin's Impact
36:37 Financial Accountability and Budgeting Efforts
38:46 Collaboration with Other Organizations
43:43 Reforming the Board: Elections and Resolutions
55:36 Annual Meeting Insights and Member Engagement
59:13 Committee Appointments and Resolutions
01:00:00 Addressing Conflicts of Interest
01:02:52 The Importance of Independent Board Members
01:03:45 The Resolution Process and Member Engagement
01:07:00 Conducting Meetings with Transparency
01:09:45 Acknowledging Past Mistakes
01:12:26 Rebuilding Trust and Membership
01:14:24 Engaging Local Associations
01:17:44 Technological Advancements in Member Engagement
01:25:31 Future of the NRA and Member Involvement

Resources

Members Take Back Our NRA
https://www.facebook.com/groups/309304408832668

Only Guns and Money (John Richardson)
https://onlygunsandmoney.com/

https://onlygunsandmoney.com/?p=35366

NRA in Danger
https://nraindanger.wordpress.com/

Takeaways
Ronald Andring Sr. has been involved with the NRA since the early 80s.
He became actively engaged in reform efforts after retiring in 2023.
The New York AG case revealed serious issues within the NRA's leadership.
Ron testified at the trial, providing insights into the board's actions.
The bench trial aimed to reform the NRA rather than penalize it.
Recent elections have seen the rise of reform-minded candidates on the board.
Transparency and accountability are crucial for the NRA's future.
Electronic balloting could increase member engagement and participation.
Ronald's resolution aims to prevent conflicts of interest among board members.
The NRA must acknowledge past mistakes to regain member trust.

Keywords
NRA, NRAAM, Ronald Andring, gun rights, reform, transparency, membership, board of directors, Second Amendment, accountability, conflicts of interest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal, medical, or financial advice. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any organizations or individuals they may mention. The hosts and guests are not liable for any damages that may result from someone listening to this podcast.