by Erick Prather, Missoula

After the great response to my last letter (Nov. 18) I’ve decided to write another.

Although some have labeled me as a “radical righty,” I was determined to fin

d my true political affiliation. So, I took three political party tests online and concluded that I wasn’t a lefty nor a righty; all three tests confirmed I was a centrist.

Therefore, as a centrist, I want to bring to attention H.R. 6257, the Assault Weapons Ban Reauthorization Act of 2008. This has got to be the worst bill yet. Thankfully, it has never made it out of committee to be voted on. However, this is far from over and the battle will continue for at least four more years – more likely, forever.

President-elect Barack Obama stated at a VPC fundraiser in 2007 that his “first priority will be to reinstate the assault weapons ban as soon as I take office,” “work with Congress on a National No Carry law,” “ban all semiautomatic weapons,” ” allow one gun purchase per month” and “within 90 days of taking office will go after all table dealers, Internet sales and gun show loop holes.”

As a gun enthusiast, I believe not all American’s should enjoy our Second Amendment. Those individuals who have elected not to be law-abiding citizens should not be permitted to carry or possess a firearm, and most are forbidden by law. Often, those who commit crimes involving guns are not obtained legally. I believe individuals who commit crimes with firearms should be prosecuted and penalized in a manner which they will reconsider committing another crime. I ask Congress to enforce the laws we have, revisit the penalties for criminals and protect our Constitution.

Good luck, may your god bless you, and stay informed!

Erick Prather, Missoula

http://www.missoulian.com/

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