26 June 2008

Yeah, But . . .

Okay, here it comes. Reaction from those who have no respect for a women's right to choose the tool that will defend her life if she is in fear of violent attack, imminent bodily harm or rape.

From U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi:

"I think it still allows the District of Columbia to come forward with a law that’s less pervasive," Pelosi said at her weekly briefing Thursday. "I think the court left a lot of room to run in terms of concealed weapons and guns near schools."

From DC Mayor Adrian Fenty:

"I'm disappointed in the Court's ruling and believe introducing more handguns into the District will mean more handgun violence," said Mayor Fenty. "But I want to emphasize that at this moment, our gun laws remain in effect. It may be several weeks before there are changes to announce.

"In the meantime, I have directed the Metropolitan Police Department to implement an orderly process for allowing qualified citizens to register handguns for lawful possession in their homes.

"Fenty, (Interim DC Attorney General Peter) Nickles and (Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy) Lanier emphasized that they will continue vigorously enforcing other gun-control laws that the court did not disturb -- including the law that all firearms including handguns must be properly registered with the Metropolitan Police Departments -- and considering other ways to lessen gun violence in the District."
"Gun violence." There's that two-word phrase once more that is utterly meaningless. I find it disturbing that the good mayor appears to care nothing for the lives that are going to be saved because gang bangers and those generally violent criminals who -- until this day -- have had no fear of the general population. Convinced that there will be a spike in the "gun violence," he seems to be worried more about the fact that criminals now face an even playing field and no longer have the upper hand.

Or did I miss something?

As for Ms. Pelosi? Well, she's playing to her political base. Another inside-the-beltway type who clearly is confused about the American mainstream. She forgets that the average American doesn't have the luxury of bodyguards that she doesn't pay for, private car that she doesn't pay for and a phalanx of other perks that she doesn't pay for designed to keep her safe.

So I ask you . . . Why do these two powerful people not like the idea of the average American woman (or man, for that matter) having access to some of that same "safety?"

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