The Next Gun Grab is Approaching
Another Mass Shooting and the Call for Gun Confiscation
Yet again, we are faced with another tragic mass shooting, and predictably, the response is a demand for the national confiscation of guns. This tired narrative blames law-abiding gun owners for the actions of deranged individuals.
This time, the horrifying incident took place in Maine. On October 25, an Army reservist went on a shooting spree at a bowling alley and restaurant in Lewiston, claiming the lives of 18 innocent people.
After an extensive manhunt, the suspect was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on October 27.
It is clear that this individual should never have been allowed to legally possess a firearm.
According to family members, he had been exhibiting concerning behavior, including hearing voices, and had been taken in for evaluation by police in mid-July. Maine has a “yellow flag” law that allows family members to alert law enforcement about potential threats, but unfortunately, no action was taken in this case.
Similar to other mass shootings in Buffalo, Dayton, and Michigan State University, the perpetrators were known to law enforcement but were not prevented from owning firearms.
The Biden administration has wasted no time in calling for new bans on so-called assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Vice President Kamala Harris has been advocating for such bans since taking office, arguing that these weapons have no place on American streets.
Enforcing Existing Laws and Examining the Data
Before rushing to implement new gun control measures, it is crucial to enforce the laws already in place. What additional law could have prevented the tragedy in Maine?
Furthermore, the data does not support the argument for more gun control. According to the Heritage Foundation, only 12% of mass killings are mass public shootings. The majority of mass killings are familicides or felony-related killings.
When it comes to reducing mass shootings, the focus on banning “AR-style” assault weapons is misguided. FBI research shows that handguns are the weapon of choice in gun-related crimes, while rifles, including assault weapons, are involved in only 3% of firearm murders.
Instead of targeting law-abiding gun owners, we should address the issue of criminals obtaining firearms illegally. A survey of prison inmates revealed that the majority of prisoners who possessed or used a firearm during their offense did not legally obtain the weapon.
Common-Sense Gun Laws
If the goal is to prevent mass shootings, two common-sense gun laws should be enacted:
- Outlaw gun-free zones, which often become targets for criminals who know they can attack without facing armed resistance.
- Allow for universal recognition of concealed carry licenses, eliminating the need for individuals to obtain multiple licenses when traveling across state lines.
These sensible measures will save lives and have a positive impact on the nation. It is time for the government to take meaningful action rather than pushing for ineffective gun confiscation.
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The Daily Wire has a policy of not naming mass shooters to deprive them of undeserved notoriety.
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Jim Nelles is a Navy veteran and supply chain consultant based in Chicago. His articles have appeared in the Washington Examiner, Newsweek, Foxnews.com, and the Daily Wire. He has served in various leadership roles for multiple companies.
The views expressed in this piece are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Daily Wire.
How do countries with strict gun control laws still experience mass shootings?
Ere is a need to thoroughly examine the data surrounding mass shootings and gun violence. While these incidents are undoubtedly tragic, it is important to understand the context and not be swayed by emotional responses.
Statistics show that the majority of gun-related deaths are the result of suicides, not mass shootings. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly two-thirds of gun deaths in the United States are suicides. It is imperative that we address mental health issues and provide adequate support to those in need. Gun confiscation will not solve this underlying problem.
Additionally, it is worth noting that countries with strict gun control laws, such as the United Kingdom and Australia, have still experienced mass shootings. This indicates that the issue is not solely about the availability of firearms, but also involves complex societal factors and individual circumstances.
Rather than focusing on gun confiscation, it would be more productive to invest in comprehensive background checks and mental health resources. Strengthening the current system for vetting potential gun owners and providing accessible mental health services could be instrumental in preventing future incidents.
Opinions may differ on the effectiveness of gun control measures, but it is crucial to approach this issue with an open mind and consider all aspects before advocating for drastic actions like gun confiscation.
Respecting the Second Amendment
It is essential to remember that the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms. While this right is not absolute and can be regulated, any attempt to confiscate guns from law-abiding citizens must be approached with caution and respect for individual rights.
The vast majority of gun owners are responsible individuals who use firearms for self-defense, hunting, and recreational purposes. Punishing law-abiding citizens by confiscating their legally obtained firearms is not a fair or effective solution.
Moreover, it should be acknowledged that firearms have long played a significant role in American culture and history. Attempts to confiscate guns erode the trust between citizens and their government and may lead to unintended consequences.
Conclusion
The call for gun confiscation in the wake of yet another mass shooting is, unfortunately, a knee-jerk reaction that fails to address the root causes of gun violence. While it is crucial to explore ways to prevent such tragedies, it is equally important to respect the rights of law-abiding citizens and consider alternative approaches.
Enforcing existing laws, examining the data, and focusing on comprehensive background checks and mental health support will prove more beneficial in addressing gun violence than the politically charged demand for gun confiscation. Only through a holistic and nuanced approach can we hope to make progress in reducing these senseless acts of violence.
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