Diana and I are multi-gun owners, proud members of the NRA and are fine with the Second Amendment as originally written…
The Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States guarantees an individual’s right to keep and bear arms – and that means for “personal and civil defense,” not just for duck hunting. We already have more than enough gun laws to ensure public safety. Let’s enforce the existing constitutional laws that work, and repeal the unconstitutional ones that don’t, instead of making any more laws that infringe on our constitutional freedoms.
Oregon has long been a haven for firearms owners – the Oregon State Constitution enshrines a right to keep and bear arms on top of the Second Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Oregon’s long history of support for hunting and shooting sports is ingrained in our culture, through our heritage of the Oregon Trail, the pioneer spirit, and the great frontier. However, in recent years, the radical progressive left has gone on the offensive, targeting firearms owners and impeding lawful self-defense.
SUPPORT FOR THE SECOND AMENDMENT
The landmark case of District of Columbia v. Heller and McDonald v. Chicago guarantee that the Second Amendment protects an individual right to keep and bear arms for defense and that right applies to states as well as the federal government. Sam Carpenter believes in this right and, as governor, will protect your rights.
NATIONAL CONCEALED CARRY AND RECIPROCITY
You can use a driver’s license from Oregon in any other state. You should be able to use your Oregon lawful concealed handgun permit in the same way. We support national concealed carry legislation in Congress – and support it without confusing the issue by adding additional provisions such as expanding the national background check system. Let the bill stand on its own merits. We also support Oregon reciprocity with other states.
PROTECTING DUE PROCESS OF LAW
Three years ago, Oregon passed SB 719. In 2017 Oregon passed HB 4145. Both of these unconstitutional bills allow the government to seize your firearms without due process of law, based on allegations of mental illness or domestic stalking. The right to due process of law, just like our right to keep and bear arms, is fundamental. We oppose any legislation that removes our due process rights.
Simply put, I believe in your right to protect yourself and your loved ones with firearms – and as long as you comply with the constitutional laws that are already in place, there is no reason for government to get in your way with anything else.