For 10 years, the U.S. banned the civilian use of assault-style guns and large-capacity magazines. But in 2004, the NRA and allied groups spent millions of dollars to kill any appetite for renewal of the ban. Why were they so intent on keeping military weapons in the hands of any and all civilians?
Last week at Federalist.com, John Davidson provided the real reason for all gun-control opposition. He says the Second Amendment is not about hunting or self-defense: “The right to bear arms stems from the right of revolution.” Americans need guns to “overthrow their government if it becomes tyrannical.”
Well, it has already become tyrannical, but it seems most assault weapon owners are so far on the side of the tyrant.
He concludes that the Second Amendment “is worth dying for.” Thus, the slaughter of first-graders, teenagers, movie and concert-goers, and even workers is necessary collateral damage of their right to armed rebellion.
This basic belief underlies opposition to any form of gun control. It is not often discussed publicly, but until it is exposed and confronted, the senseless slaughter will continue.
Janet Monell
Durango
