I've always advocated gun control; the odd thing is I still do. (Para.2)
Meaning: I've always said in public that I support the idea of gun control and the strange thing is that I am still a gun control supporter now.
advocate：vt. suggest or say that you support a particular plan or action
People running for president often advocate reducing taxes. 竞选总统的人往往主张减税。
They advocated strict control of pollution to protect the environment. 他们主张严格控制污染以保护环境。