Concealed Carry on the Rise: A Look at the Latest Trends in the US

The right to bear arms, enshrined in the Second Amendment, continues to be a significant topic of discussion and legislative action across the United States. As of 2023, there were nearly 22.9 million concealed carry permit holders nationwide [1]. This number doesn't even account for individuals in the 29 states that have adopted permitless carry, also known as constitutional carry [1]. This means the actual number of armed citizens is likely even higher [1].

States Leading the Way in Concealed Carry

Several states stand out regarding the sheer number of concealed carry permit holders. Florida leads the nation with over 2.56 million permit holders, followed by Georgia, Pennsylvania, Texas, Alabama, and Indiana, each boasting over 1 million [1].

When looking at the percentage of the population with permits, Alabama takes the lead with 27.8%, followed by Indiana (23.4%) and Colorado (16.55%) [1].

Top States by Permit Holders:

• Florida: 2.56 million+
• Georgia: Over 1 million
• Pennsylvania: Over 1 million
• Texas: Over 1 million
• Alabama: Over 1 million
• Indiana: Over 1 million

Top States by Percentage of Population with Permits:

• Alabama: 27.8%
• Indiana: 23.4%
• Colorado: 16.55%
• Pennsylvania: 15.44%
• Georgia: 14.48%

The Rise of Permitless Carry

A significant trend in recent years is the increase in states adopting "permitless carry" or "constitutional carry" laws. As of early 2026, 29 states have enacted such laws, allowing citizens to carry concealed weapons without a license [2][3]. This shift reflects a broader movement asserting that the Second Amendment should not require government permission to exercise the right to carry a firearm [4].

Key Data Trends and Considerations

• Growth of Permitless Carry: The number of states with permitless carry laws has significantly increased, changing the landscape of gun control across the country [2][3].
• Regional Differences: States like New York, California, New Jersey, and Hawaii have the lowest rates of permit ownership, with less than 1% of their populations holding permits [1].
• Law-Abiding Citizens: Data suggests that concealed carry permit holders are exceptionally law-abiding [5].

Resources and Further Reading

For those interested in learning more about concealed carry laws and statistics, here are some valuable resources:

• US Concealed Carry Association (USCCA): Provides information on gun ownership and state-specific regulations [1].
• National Rifle Association (NRA): Advocates for Second Amendment rights and offers resources on firearm safety and training [6].
• Pew Research Center: Conducts surveys and research on gun ownership and related attitudes [7].
• Handgunlaw.us: Offers detailed information on permitless carry states [8].

The data clearly indicates a growing trend in concealed carry across the United States. Whether through traditional permitting processes or the expansion of permitless carry laws, more Americans are exercising their right to bear arms. Understanding these trends and the resources available is essential for informed discussions about gun control and the Second Amendment.

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Learn more:

1. Gun Ownership by State | Stats & Figures | USCCA
2. Constitutional carry - Wikipedia
3. What Is Constitutional Carry? | State Gun Laws | USCCA Blog
4. Which U.S. States Have Passed Permitless Carry Gun Laws? - The Trace
5. Concealed Carry Statistics - Black Basin Outdoors
6. Concealed Carry Data Reveals the Truly Democratic Nature of the Second Amendment | An Official Journal Of The NRA - America's 1st Freedom
7. Key facts about Americans and guns - Pew Research Center
8. Permitless Carry States | Handgunlaw.us

The Buzz on X #BlackTwitter: Celebrating Our Culture and Vibes

Hello all! Let’s talk about what’s been heating up on X #BlackTwitter lately. From laughs to heartfelt moments, our community is buzzing with conversations that truly reflect who we are. Here’s a recap of what’s trending and why it matters.

Keeping It Real with Humor

First up, shoutout to @Southside_Gunn and that hilarious post about “Things that have did irreparable damage to the Black Community.” Yeah, we’re talking about gems like "Love and Hip Hop," "Drake," and even "Tubi movies." This list got a ton of folks debating and sharing laughs. It’s not just jokes; it’s a chance to reflect on how pop culture shapes our lives. What are we really watching, and how does it influence us?

Celebrating Our Black Joy

Then there’s @MelanatedTalk, who reminded us all that "Black culture is truly a wonderful vibe." This post was all about gratitude for our heritage and the joy that comes with it. Seriously, being Black is a blessing we should cherish every day. Let's keep celebrating those moments of #BlackJoy and pride!

Style Tips That Hit Home

On the fashion front, @MisterChances dropped some style wisdom that got a lot of love. Tips like “White Air Force goes with every T-shirt color” and “Don’t wear timbs if you don’t have aura” are spot on! It’s a fun reminder that our style speaks volumes about who we are. What are your go-to outfits that make you feel like you?

Real Talk on Family Life

Family discussions are always lively too! Recently, a mom shared a video packing an elaborate lunch for her son, prompting the question: “DON’T HE GOT FOOD AT HIS HOUSE?” This sparked a conversation about balancing love and practicality in our parenting styles. It’s a reminder that we show love in different ways, and sometimes keeping it real is just as important.

Prioritizing Health and Wellness

Health and wellness are also making waves, with posts celebrating fitness milestones and the motto “Health is wealth.” This conversation matters because we’re not just chasing dreams; we’re striving to take care of ourselves and promote well-being within our community. Let’s encourage each other to stay healthy!

Wrapping Up: Stay Connected!

So, as these conversations unfold, let’s keep lifting each other up. The mix of humor, pride, and real talk is what makes our community special. What are you seeing on your timeline? How do these trends reflect who we are?

Join the convo and let’s keep sharing those vibes! Together, we’re writing our own narrative of #BlackExcellence, and it’s beautiful to see. Join us at @blackspotlight only on X. See you there!

NM Enterprise 7 - We Do It Live Today Faith Family Focus talking with a Twenty-something Truck Driver

When Evil Takes You Over | NM Enterprise 7 audio

An Opportunity or Gift Gone Wrong | NM Enterprise 7 audio

I Created an AI Clone to Make as Much Money as Possible While I Sleep - Journey with The Hintons

This video demonstrates how to create an AI clone to generate video content and potentially earn income without constant personal involvement (0:00). The creator, Monique, introduces her AI twin, Monique 2.0, which works 24/7 (0:12).

The main tool used for this is InVideo AI, specifically its new AI Twin feature (0:46). This feature allows users to create studio-quality videos using their own face, voice, and style, essentially creating a "digital twin" or "avatar" (0:56-1:10).

Key points about InVideo AI's AI Twin feature:

Ethical AI Content (1:14): YouTube has updated its policies on AI-generated content, but the video clarifies that ethical, original, and value-driven AI use (like AI twins or actors where the creator is behind the content) is generally acceptable.

Platform Recommendations (1:41): While YouTube is viable, TikTok is highlighted as a platform that currently "loves AI content," offering faster growth (1:57).

How to Create an AI Twin (2:10):

Navigate to the "Create AI Video" section in InVideo and select "AI Twins" (2:21).

Choose "Avatar Clones" (2:53).

Upload a video (3:00): Users can either use an existing YouTube video by pasting its link or record a new video.

Recording tips (3:26): Maintain eye contact, speak naturally, ensure good lighting, record at least 60 seconds of talking (can be multiple clips), and explicitly grant InVideo permission to clone your avatar (3:59).

Ensure a quiet environment for clear audio (4:26).

Creating Videos with the AI Twin (5:01):

Go back to "Create AI Video" and select your newly created AI twin (5:05).

Provide a text prompt describing the video content (e.g., "Create a 30-second inspirational video...") (5:17).

The platform then generates the video, which can be edited, including changing the language (6:34).

UGC AI Actors (7:11): For those who prefer not to be on camera, InVideo AI also offers "UGC AI actors"—pre-made AI characters that look like real people and can deliver any script (7:26).

Costs and Benefits:

Creating an AI avatar is free (9:00).

For consistent content production, upgrading to the generative plan is recommended, starting at $100/month (9:05).

The AI twin allows for the creation of studio-quality videos without a large team, branded content for visibility, and enables new side hustles (9:41).

InVideo's AI Twin feature allows users to create a hyper-realistic digital clone of themselves from a short video, enabling them to generate endless video content without constant filming by simply typing prompts for scripts, B-roll, and voiceovers that their twin delivers. This feature also supports translation into over 50 languages, making it suitable for scaling content for ads, training, and social media.

🧘🏾‍♀️ Finding Your Peace: Why StillnessGifts on Redbubble is the Vibe Your Self-Care Routine Needs

Let’s be real: navigating the daily grind can be a lot. In a world that constantly demands our energy, finding spaces—physical and mental—for peace is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. If your self-care routine is calling for an aesthetic upgrade that speaks to your soul, you need to check out StillnessGifts on Redbubble.

This isn't just another print shop. It’s a curated collection where spiritual wisdom meets everyday style, giving you access to affirmations, rooted in faith and mindfulness, that you can wear, display, and genuinely vibe with.

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The Messages: Affirmations Rooted in Wisdom and Faith

StillnessGifts knows the power of a word spoken—or printed—in due season. The heart of this shop lies in its unapologetic commitment to peace, clarity, and the deep, unwavering wisdom that often gets passed down through generations.

Their designs are full of affirmations perfect for grounding your day:

• The Power of Patience: Quotes like "Stillness Gifts When the Time Comes You'll Know What to Do" are perfect reminders to trust your journey and stand on your faith.

• Clarity and Calm: Pieces centered on the theme "Stillness Gifts Leads to Clarity Mindfulness Meditation" serve as a visual nudge to pause, breathe, and reset your mind.

• Faith Over Fear: The collection includes powerful faith-based sayings, such as "Stillness Gifts Thank God I'm alive" and "Stillness Gifts My Plans are not Your Plans Be Still," bringing that Sunday spirit into your daily life.

Whether you're looking for art for your sacred space or a conversation-starting piece of apparel, these designs blend inspirational text with beautiful, contemplative imagery, like flower mandalas and serene photo art.

From Your Morning Mug to Your Statement Tee: Products for Every Vibe

One of the best things about shopping on a platform like Redbubble is the sheer variety. Once you find a message or design that resonates with your spirit, you can rock it on almost anything:

• Home Grounding: Transform your space with Framed Art Prints and Canvas Prints for your living room, or grab a few Throw Pillows and Coasters to keep the good energy flowing in your kitchen.

• Wear Your Wisdom: Their Essential T-Shirts and Hoodies turn powerful quotes into effortless statement pieces.

• Daily Reminders: Slap a Sticker on your laptop, use a Tote Bag for your groceries, or send a Greeting Card to bless a friend.

It’s all about integrating that sense of peace into every facet of your lifestyle.

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💡 Entrepreneurship and Purpose: Supporting the Stillness Mission

When you shop StillnessGifts, you're not just buying a cool product—you're supporting an independent creator who is paying it forward.

The shop is actively working to build community, stating that partial proceeds from their merchandise help fund upcoming book projects. This means your purchase is directly contributing to supporting new voices and helping those interested in publishing their own books. It’s a beautiful cycle of consuming with purpose and investing in the growth of Black authorship and creativity.

Time to Invest in Your Peace

We know that true self-care requires intentionality. StillnessGifts offers an easy, accessible way to affirm yourself and create a personal environment that reflects your deepest desire for peace and resilience.

Ready to bring that contemplative energy into your wardrobe and home? Head over to the StillnessGifts shop on Redbubble and find the perfect piece to speak life into your day.

Your purchase helps with maintaining this blog. Thank you!

Which affirmation piece from StillnessGifts is speaking to your spirit right now?