While I could never be a one-issue voter, some issues are closer to my heart that others. I have made no apologies for my views and have been very outgoing is stating that I am, above all, a values based voter. I will never vote for a candidate that is “Pro Choice”, and I will never vote for a candidate that is pro homosexual. These are absolutes which I will not waver on, but there are some issues, like Gun Control, which figure into my considerations as well.

To be clear, I am a strong supporter of our Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. I am an owner of multiple firearms, hold a concealed carry permit in 3 states, am a member of the NRA, and am looking forward to the day when I can team my own son how to handle and use a firearm safely and responsibly. I am also against Firearms in the hands of fellons, those with a history of violent behavior, and those who have proven themselves to be mentally unstable.

The other day I stumbled upon this link at CNN which had some very interesting information on the stance of the different candidates.

First the Democrats. Hillary’s view on gun control seems to be that of most main stream democrats:

Voted for a 10-year extension of the assault weapons ban. Voted for requiring extensive background checks at gun shows. Supports licensing and registration of handguns, mandatory trigger locks for handguns, holding adults responsible for their children’s use of guns, raising the youth handgun ban from age 18 to 21, limiting gun sales to one per month and allowing the Consumer Products Safety Commission regulate guns.

A moderate view, but one that still failes to recognize that there are no dangerous guns, only dangerous people. I agree with the need for an FBI NICS check for any purchase of a gun, even at gun shows. How else can we assure that the responsibility and privileged of gun ownership is only available to those who can reasonably shoulder it? I also agree that adults should be held responsible if children get a hold of their guns. The assault weapons ban is garbage, as are mandatory trigger locks. My gun safe is a perfectly good place to keep my guns. Limits on purchases of guns is just as pointless, and limits the rights of those of us who are law abiding citizens.

Now Obama is the real scary one - this view is far left even for the Democrats.

Supports extending the assault weapons ban. Supports national law against carrying concealed weapons, with exceptions for retired police and military personnel. Supports limiting gun sales to one per month.

No concealed carry? First, that is not a national issue, that is a state issue and the states have overwhelmingly supporting the individual right to carry a concealed weapon for self defense. Obama would effectively turn the nation into one massive “gun free zone” where the only armed people would be the criminals.

Now the Republicans. First, Huckabee:

Opposes reauthorization of the assault weapons ban. Opposes mandatory trigger locks for handguns. Opposes waiting periods for gun purchases. Owns a variety of firearms. NRA member. Has a concealed carry permit.

Good, good and good. I didn’t know Mike had a concealed carry permit, but I applaud him for it. Our focus in gun control needs to be a balance between allowing lawful citizens to enjoy gun ownership and defend them selves if needed while at the same time limiting the ability of guns to fall into the hands of those who have proven themselves incapable of responsible gun ownership.

Now McCain:

Sponsored legislation requiring background checks at gun shows. Voted against a 10-year extension of the assault weapons ban. Opposed legislation requiring trigger locks for handguns. Opposed 1994 crime bill, which contained the assault weapons ban.

Good again. I agree with background checks being required, but not with the the others.

I guess this is one to add to my already long list of why I would never vote for Hilary or Obama.