Obama wants gun violence measures passed next year, voices doubts about armed school guards

WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama is voicing skepticism about proposals to place armed guards at schools in the aftermath of the mass shooting in Newtown, Connecticut, that killed 20 children. He says he wants legislation aimed at containing gun violence passed next year.

In his most specific remarks about gun violence since the deadly assault at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Obama says he still supports increased background checks and bans on assault weapons and high capacity bullet magazines.

Obama made his remarks on NBC television's "Meet the Press."

Six adults also died at the school. Authorities say the shooter killed himself and his mother at their home.

Obama says the Dec. 14 shooting was the worst day of his presidency. He vowed to put his "full weight" behind a legislative package.