NRA falls silent after Conn. school carnage

WASHINGTON The National Rifle Association, the nation's largest gun-rights group, has gone eerily silent after the deadly shooting of 26 people, including 20 children, at a Connecticut elementary school.

Its Facebook page has disappeared. It has not sent a message on Twitter since the extent of the carnage became clear. And no leaders of the 4.3 million-member organization appeared on the talk shows this past Sunday, two days after the shooting.

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During past crises, the politically powerful group has defended gun owners' constitutional right to bear arms, which is popular among millions of Americans.

But with 20 of the victims ages 6 or 7, it may be tougher to advocate for gun owners' rights.

One Republican strategist says the NRA's approach is probably wise, given the emotions involved.