Poll shows Idahoans support gun purchase background checks

A new survey indicates two-thirds of Idahoans support increased background checks for gun purchases, including internet and gun show sales. The survey, conducted by Dan Jones and Associates, was commissioned by Zion’s Bank for its “Idaho Politics Weekly” website.

The late-December poll found that 66 percent of Idaho adults “definitely” or “probably” support increased gun sale background checks on gun buyers.

Jones found that republicans favor tighter checks by a margin of 65-33 percent. Democrats support them by a margin of 94-5 percent.

According to the survey, 63 percent of Idaho men support increased background checks, but 78 percent of women favor them.

The poll was taken before President Obama issued his executive order tightening up background check requirements. Republicans condemned the action, saying the president did not have authority to take such action.