I was appalled at the recent so-called town hall meetings and the gun packing protesters. Living in Washington, DC, I’m used to protests, demonstators and public events. Everyone protests here from anti-abortion, anti-gay rights to IMF and World Bank protests. Since 9-11, many restrictions have been placed on those attending public events. Gone are the days when you are free to roam and bring whatever your heart desires to an event. There is always a restricted list of forbidden items. I understand the need for these restrictions.
Violence is real in this country. I’m not speaking about the street violence in urban cities. There’s violence in suburban America where many of the town hall meeting raucus took place. I’m talking about killing an abortion doctor in Wichita, Kansas in May, 2009 because his views differed from the killer. In Maryville, Illinois, a gunman entred a church in March and killed the Pastor. Then there’s the recent gym killing of women during an aerobics class in suburban Pittsubrgh.
What is scary is the attitude of the demonstrators attending these protests. They cannot be called town hall meetings anymore. Anger, rage, temper and guns are never a good mix. It’s like always drinking and driving. Something bad is bound to happen. So why not risk the ire of the NRA and prohibit guns, knives and any other dangerous weapons from any political events with the President. Is that too much to ask to protect our President?
We cannot rely on the National Rifle Association to police its members. That won’t happen. They’re broadening their so-called “right” to bear arms. Perhaps President Obama and his advisors do not want to upset the NRA. The thinking here is wrong, if that’s the case.
Protecting our President should be our paramount concern. If gun restrictions limit the gun toters rights for several hours, where is the harm?They can always pack after the President leaves.