Assembling gun, Auchincloss urges backing Question 9

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, October 24, 2026

U.S. Representative Jake Auchincloss released a 30-second ad demonstrating how easily ghost guns—untraceable firearms assembled from online-ordered parts—can be made, to support Massachusetts’ Question 9 ballot measure aimed at preserving 2024 gun control laws. The referendum’s outcome will determine whether regulations raising the purchase age for semiautomatic rifles and targeting ghost guns remain in place amid broader efforts to address gun violence.

U.S. Representative Jake Auchincloss is using a new approach to support Massachusetts’ Question 9, a ballot measure aiming to maintain stringent gun control laws enacted in 2024. In a recently released 30-second advertisement, Auchincloss assembles a replica rifle in real time while emphasizing the ease with which untraceable firearms can be acquired.

The ad highlights the risks posed by “ghost guns,” untraceable weapons often assembled at home from parts that can be ordered online or 3D printed. Auchincloss, a father of three, draws attention to this by noting in the spot that many everyday items are purchased online, including components to build such firearms. The representative’s campaign reported spending nearly $91,000 on producing the ad, which is supported by a five-figure media buy for social media platforms ahead of Election Day.

Question 9 seeks to uphold a sweeping 2024 gun control law that raised the minimum age to purchase semiautomatic rifles and established regulations targeted at ghost guns. The legislation was introduced amid concerns about gun violence and the proliferation of untraceable weapons. Advocates for the law argue it is necessary to enhance public safety and restrict access to potentially dangerous firearms.

Opponents, including gun rights activists, placed the referendum on the ballot with the goal of repealing the 2024 law. They contend that the current regulations unduly restrict lawful gun owners and infringe upon Second Amendment rights.

In addition to Auchincloss’s individual effort, a broader campaign known as “Vote Yes for a Safe Massachusetts” is campaigning for a ‘yes’ vote on Question 9. This initiative is funded by numerous contributors, including the Massachusetts Teachers Association, and focuses on highlighting the public safety benefits of retaining the gun control measures.

Auchincloss, who reported holding nearly $7.5 million in campaign funds as of late September, is among the few sitting members of Congress publicly using a firearm, even a replica, in a gun control advertisement. His actions reflect an increased emphasis by some legislators on addressing emerging threats posed by ghost guns and maintaining strict gun regulations.

The outcome of the referendum will be closely watched as Massachusetts voters consider whether to uphold the 2024 law designed to curb access to certain firearms amid ongoing national debates over gun control.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.