The number of paid new members jumped from 4.1 million to 4.2 million, an official said. NRA: 100K new members in 18 days

The National Rifle Association has gained more than 100,000 new members in the past 18 days, the organization told POLITICO’s Playbook on Thursday.

The number of paid new members jumped from 4.1 million to 4.2 million during that time.


( Also on POLITICO: Expectations low for Biden, NRA talks)

“Our goal is to get to 5 million before this debate is over,” the NRA told POLITICO’s Mike Allen.

Those comments come as Vice President Joe Biden gears up to meet with NRA representatives Thursday to discuss gun policy after the Dec. 14 mass shooting in Newtown, Conn., prompted a national conversation on the subject.

( PHOTOS: Celebrities speak out on gun control)

“We are willing to talk to policymakers about any reasonable proposals and plans,” an NRA official said in the Playbook report, regarding the upcoming meeting with Biden. “However, the NRA is hearing not just from Beltway elites and the chattering class, but real Americans all over the country that are hoping the NRA is not going to compromise on any of the principles of the Second Amendment, nor are we going to support banning guns. But we’re willing to listen.”

( Also on POLITICO: Chris Rock: Mortgage key to gun control)

To join the NRA, one must pay $25. In return, new members may choose to receive a “Rosewood Handle Knife, Black & Gold Duffel Bag or Digital Camo Duffel Bag,” the Playbook report said.