Obama says he Has Done Some Shooting at Camp David and that Gun Owners Rights Have to be Protected

Some gun rights supporters may be surprised, but President Obama says he has fired guns.

"In fact, up at Camp David, we do skeet shooting all the time," Obama told The New Republic.

The White House did not provide a photo.

Obama told the magazine the rights of hunters and other gun owners have to be respected as he and his allies pursue a legislative package that includes new gun-control measures.

"I have a profound respect for the traditions of hunting that trace back in this country for generations," Obama said. "And I think those who dismiss that out of hand make a big mistake."

The National Rifle Association and other gun rights groups have vowed to block Obama proposals that include a revamped assault weapons ban, universal background checks and restrictions on the size of ammunition magazines. The administration developed the plan after the deaths of 20 children during a shooting Dec. 14 at an elementary school in Connecticut.

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