selma answered the question but I can extend it by saying that everywhere that has allowed citizens to once again have ccw, has had a drop in crime. but local politicians don't care- they would rather have an unarmed public getting preyed upon by scumbags than have a safe society where the individual can defend themselves.
Yeah, I checked out a few studies. Looks like urban handguns bans haven't been very effective at reducing crime, although a couple studies found that stricter background checks did lead to a drop in homicide rates. I guess it depends on whether you consider a background check to be gun control.
Still, I haven't really heard any national politicians, democratic or republican, advocating an "across the board" ban on guns, as you say. In fact, I'm not sure I've heard a single word about gun control from Obama. Didn't he even sign a bill that allows citizens to carry loaded weapons in national parks?
Let's see them stinking grizzly bears try to take Cheerios from people now!