Final answer:
Public opinion on an assault weapons ban in the U.S. tends to fluctuate, often increasing after mass shootings. Overall, opinions on gun control measures vary significantly, influenced by recent events, safety concerns, and political culture. State governments have mainly pursued intermediate measures rather than a complete ban.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to various opinion polls and research, the question of whether a majority of Americans favor an assault weapons ban can be complex because public opinion varies over time and by political culture. Following mass shootings, like the one at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, there is often a surge in support for stricter gun control measures, including the possibility of an assault weapons ban. One poll by the Washington Post found in April 2021 that, compared to peak times such as after the Parkland shooting, support for new gun laws had declined. Nevertheless, public safety concerns following incidents of mass shootings do lead to discussions of more stringent laws regarding firearms, with opinions diverging significantly across different states and individual sentiments on balancing Second Amendment rights with the need for reducing gun violence.
It's also noted that policies often try to balance different interests, with some groups advocating for a complete ban on the sale of certain types of weapons and others opposing any such restrictions. State governments have mostly pursued intermediate solutions, such as placing restrictions on who can sell guns, where gun sales can take place, or implementing requirements for background checks, without outright banning gun sales. The sentiment towards gun control, including assault weapons bans, is therefore influenced by recent events, overall perceptions of safety, and the political and cultural environment within the United States.