By now I would imagine Ted Nugent is foaming at the mouth, yet again. Senator Rand Paul, already dreaming about nabbing the 2016 Republican presidential nomination, is blustering on about potential legislation to block President Obama’s executive orders, and Texas Republican House member Steve Stockman , along with Florida House rookie Trey Radel, will likely (briefly) interrupt 2nd amendment-mandated militia training (in this instance goose-stepping briskly around the Capitol long enough to file articles of impeachment against the President. What has these paragons of stability so aroused? Good question.
President Obama has followed through on his promise to address gun violence by proposing legislation that will:
• Require criminal background checks for all gun sales
• Reinstate the assault weapons ban
• Restore a 10-round limit on ammunition magazine
• Eliminate armor-piercing bullets
• Provide mental health screening & services in schools
• Institute a federal gun trafficking statute
• Allocate funds to hire more police officers
There is absolutely no provision (unfortunately) that would “go after” any weapons and/or ammunition clips currently and lawfully owned.
In addition, the President issued 23 executive orders ranging from improving the background check system and avenues of inter-state cooperation, to providing law enforcement, first responders, and school officials with proper training for active shooter situations.
While no one can argue with any certainty whether or not these policies may have prevented the specific tragedy at Newtown, there’s no denying that it’s time to address the epidemic of gun violence in our country. It’s past time.
I believe that the measures the President has proposed/undertaken could save lives in the future, and it would be tragic if the NRA and its gun lobby allies are able to block a timely and thoughtful discussion. It’s clear they have no intention of relinquishing one hollow point bullet or automatic weapon if it means a loss of their power. In the meantime, they have chosen to demonize the President, his family, Mayor Bloomberg, Governor Cuomo, Senator Feinstein, Sarah Brady, and any other proponents of rational Second Amendment rights.
One is left to wish for a 24th Executive Order that would establish a (poison) rhetoric-free
zone… an island of calm, rational discussion free from the likes of Nugent, Paul, Stockman, Radel, Rick Perry,Wayne LaPierre, Kendell Kroeker, et al. Now that would be sweet.
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