An Open Letter From Idaho On The Second Amendment
Rod Klingler Rod Klingler
There was a shooting at Rigby Middle School today. This is close to home for Defending Idaho, as our headquarters are located in Rexburg, just a few miles away. We have friends and relatives in Rigby.
While we are as saddened by these events as anyone else, we cannot and do not support any efforts to violate, eradicate, or change the Second Amendment.
Although it was suggested by President Biden last week that "no amendment to the Constitution is absolute," he–and many Americans–must be reminded that the Second Amendment is not the federal government granting us a right. On the contrary, it puts the federal government on notice that they have no authority over whether or not the people can bear arms. Period.
Even if the President were to completely abolish the Second Amendment, as some voices are clamoring for, it would make no difference. The right of the people to defend themselves, up to and including the use of deadly force, is a natural right, granted us by God Himself, and it cannot be removed.
Further, we retain unto ourselves the right to defend ourselves against tyrannical government. The book, The Bill of Rights and Beyond, published by the National Archives, contains the following quote on its opening page:
"An ancient fear of being disarmed and helpless before standing professional armies lies behind the Second and Third amendments. Aristotle said that decisions of a leader "backed by a standing army" would be different from those made by a leader "awed by the fear of an armed people." "
Where Idaho is concerned, it is one of the safest places to live, despite–or because of–the fact that it has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the country.
Was a crime committed today? Yes, and we regret that people sometimes make poor decisions. It is necessary, however, that we accept risks if we are to remain free.