During a twitter exchange with an anti-gun activist, I sent a reply that has drawn attention by my opponent and the Newtown Action Alliance. Be assured that I did not intend to malign any group or individual. I also did not intend to imply any moral equivalence between groups. My simple point was that groups on both sides of the gun debate have become so steadfast and strident in their own positions that they impede the process of finding common solutions that will actually save lives.
Focusing on only the most extreme sides of the gun debate and the tactics used to discredit the opposition have polarized the debate to a point where many effective solutions were never considered. In addition, the nature of the last debate has made it very unlikely the legislature will take up bills anytime in the near future that would address important issues, including gun trafficking. If we are to bring about sensible reform, we must have all sides at the table and they must be willing to address gun regulation in a in a way that considers all constructive ideas, including some proven recommendations of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence. They must also address the problem of access to guns by people with serious mental illness. Failing to come together to work toward these common sense goals will simply allow more of our citizens to fall victim to gun violence.
It’s time for a lot less politics, and a lot more common sense.