WE have a problem; innocents are being killed randomly at the mall, at the theater and now in kindergarten because high capacity and rapid fire weapons are too common. Yes, people can be killed by other methods, but the destructive force is a lot less with other means. We regulate alcohol sales, we regulate tobacco sales, we can do a better job of regulating gun sales. I have not seen one proposal about BANNING handgun sales, only some sensible regulation. We had an assault weapons ban until 2004, we could restore it. Military weapons should be in the hands of the military, not available to any nut job at a gun show. The NRA and gun lobby has had its way with controlling the gun debate, much as Grover Norquist created idiot-logical purity of tax policy, to the detriment of our economy. End ideological purity about guns. Improve background checks and lengthen waiting periods. Limit large capacity magazines. End gun show sales without background checks.
I grieve for the families of Newtown CT, but yes now is the time to talk about gun control. Obama's speech was a cautious but admirable first step. He must conserve his political capital for some of other pressing national and international problems. James Brady, who took a bullet for Ronald Reagan, helped pass a bill later signed by Bill Clinton, could Gabby Giffords be a touchstone for renewed efforts?
Upton Sinclair brought about improved food safety, Rachel Carson helped bring about the EPA, Ralph Nader triggered reform in auto safety, is there a champion out there with the temerity to go hand to hand with the NRA? Bob Costas, a respected sports commentator got hammered for quoting another journalist who made some rational observations in the wake of the Kansas City Chiefs murder suicide. Stop the censorship of gun control discussion.