Guns and Abortion

Two stories I saw in the past few days that made me think about the mindset of the Republicans.
Activists Mount Last-Ditch Bid to Extend Gun Ban
Federal Judge Bans Enforcement of U.S. Abortion Law
   The Republicans are all out for protecting the life of the unborn, but seem not to take notice of this assault weapon ban that aims to protect the life of those who are living. I've heard that since the ban went into place, crimes committed with these weapons are down by over 60%. But Bush nor the Republicans in Congress are saying anything about extending the ban. (besides that it will expire) Is it because the NRA is lining their pockets? And the abortion ban that mentions nothing about protecting the mother's health is being supported full on by the White House. I don't get that. Is it because the right wing religious groups are lining their pockets?
   And why aren't Kerry and the Democrats saying anything about these two stories? Instead we're back to 30 years ago and Bush's service record. That tactic worked for the Republicans against Kerry, but the Dems better have a good plan or I think it may backfire on them.