Masters’ Pro-Trump Stance Could Pose Him for Possible ATF Director Role
Masters’ unwavering pro-Trump stance could prove beneficial in securing a nomination for the role of ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives) director, similar to how it helped Republicans like former Sen. David Perdue and former Rep. Billy Long secure top nominations this month. Trump endorsed Masters in the 2022 Senate race, although he ultimately lost the general election to Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz.
Masters also has the backing of Vice President-elect JD Vance and billionaire Peter Thiel, but some within Trump’s camp may oppose giving him a key role. If confirmed, Masters’ path to success in the Senate won’t be straightforward, primarily due to the sensitive gun policies under the ATF’s purview. The position’s troubled history is evident in President Joe Biden’s first two nominees, with Steve Dettelbach being the only one confirmed in 2022. Trump’s ATF nominee, Chuck Canterbury, was withdrawn in 2020.
However, Masters’ pro-gun stance may appeal to some Republicans, as he campaigned on gun rights during his Senate bid. The Senate can afford up to three defections on any nominee. Brandon Herrera, a gun advocate who narrowly lost a GOP primary race, is also vying for the position and has expressed a desire to “hack, slash, and cripple” the agency if confirmed.