On June 5, 2025, the Supreme Court unanimously rejected the Mexican government's lawsuit that accused Smith & Wesson and other U.S. firearms manufacturers of aiding and abetting gun violence. The ruling upheld the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act, thereby extending legal immunity to these companies, which many critics argue undermines accountability for practices contributing to cross-border violence.

The Supreme Court unanimously threw out the Mexican government's lawsuit against U.S. gun makers, citing the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. This federal immunity effectively shields Smith & Wesson from liability regarding allegations tied to gun violence and problematic sales practices.

FEC and Senate records indicate that Smith & Wesson contributed $26,195 in campaign finance and spent $135,000 on lobbying in 2024, reflecting corporate engagement in political financing that can potentially influence policy in ways that support authoritarian agendas.

OpenSecrets data for Smith & Wesson reveals that during the 2024 cycle, the company contributed $26,195 and spent $135,000 on lobbying efforts. This disclosure, drawing from campaign finance and lobbying reports, highlights the firm's active political spending and influence.

On March 4, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the case of Smith & Wesson v. Estados Unidos Mexicanos. The case centers on allegations that the company’s practices contributed to illegal firearm trafficking, with S&W defending its reliance on the PLCAA predicate exception to avoid liability for downstream criminal misuse. Critics argue that this defense reflects a broader pattern of corporate irresponsibility in prioritizing profit over public safety.

FEC data confirms the registration of the SMITH & WESSON BRANDS, INC. Political Action Committee linked to Smith & Wesson, despite showing no funds raised or disbursements. The existence of this PAC signals an avenue for future political contributions that may align with corporate political interests.

Facing proposed restrictive gun control legislation in Massachusetts—which would ban the manufacturing of key firearms driving over 60% of its revenue—Smith & Wesson announced plans in 2023 to relocate its headquarters to Maryville, Tennessee. While the company asserts the move is necessary for its continued viability, it will result in significant job losses and community disruption in its historic Springfield base.

Smith & Wesson announced plans to relocate its headquarters from Massachusetts to Tennessee, citing the threat of stricter gun control laws in Massachusetts as a major factor in its decision. The move, set for 2023, underscores the company’s strategic navigation of state-level political environments and regulatory pressures.

An investigation revealed that Smith & Wesson donated $209,202, with 80% of the contributions going to Republican coffers, suggesting alignment with far-right political efforts.