The National Rifle Association faced the media for the first time since the shooting in Newtown, Connecticut.
The NRA today offering its solution for reducing gun violence in the nation's schools, but even long–time supporters are skeptical.
Gun control advocates want a ban on assault weapons – like the one used last week's shooting in Newtown.
But Wayne LaPierre says gun control is not the answer... he believes the government should put an armed police officer at every school.
"We can immediately make America's school safer relying on the brave men and women of America's police forces," he says.
Representative Tim Walz has enjoyed the endorsement of the NRA in the past.
But on this idea, the former teacher emphatically parted company with the group.
Rep. Walz says, "I refuse to believe that our schools have to become armed encampments where our children don't feel safe. I spent my life tome making those nurturing and healthy and safe environments, and it can be done, and it con be done smartly."
LaPierre blamed video games, music videos and the media for exposing children to a violent culture.
Rep. Walz does concede that there isn't one simple answer to the problem.
He adds, "I just want to reiterate my desire to understand this complex issue, my willingness to approach it from accessibility of weapons, to mental health parity to background check funding to every issue that's out there."
President Obama and his staff paused for a moment silence in the oval office to honor the victims at Sandy Hook Elementary.
The White House is pushing for a ban on assault weapons – saying the time for change has arrived.
