Letter to the Editor: The two faces of Bob Taft

July 14, 2003
Akron Beacon-Journal

Gov. Bob Taft felt compelled to write a major Ohio newspaper setting the record straight as to his position on the concealed-carry issue (``Taft: Gun bill must meet test,'' Beacon Journal, June 25). A few of his statements follow:

• "I have been a strong supporter of the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and the rights it grants.''

Observation: Then why doesn't he honor, protect and defend it as promised when he took the oath of office? Defending with a gun is a right, not a privilege to be extended by a governor.

• "I am proud to have received support from state troopers, the Fraternal Order of Police and many local police groups in my statewide campaigns.''

Observation: Proud that this minuscule segment of Ohio's population (law enforcement) is so in agreement with his stance that it's willing to put the majority of Ohio's population at risk by depriving them of the right to defend themselves with a gun -- a right allowed by governors of 44 other states.

• "The Senate bill requires that firearms be locked away when a child is in the vehicle.''

Observation: Thus leaving both driver and child vulnerable to attempted carjacking or kidnapping.

• "(It) increases safety of law enforcement by notifying them through the Law Enforcement Automated Data System when a vehicle belongs to a concealed-carry permit holder.''

Observation: A back-door attempt at total registration, a sneaky precursor to eventual confiscation of all firearms.

• "My position has been clear since 1997... and it is not negotiable.''

Observation: What an unseemly position against his constituency. If you agree, write, e-mail or phone him.

John J. Myers
Medina

Click here to read the letter in the Akron Beacon Journal.