A lot of people state "government" as if it's some artificial intelligence that is of the same mindset trying to control people. You do realize that these Sheriff's were elected and live in the same communities we all do?
If you're going to make the argument that the 2nd amendment was created to protect against government becoming too powerful I could make the argument that the amendment wasn't created with the idea of carrying around an instant killing device in your pocket either. That's an old and tired argument which can be interpreted many ways, I just think that carrying a hidden weapon isn't the answer.
I disagree, vehemently on this one. Freedoms don't go away in the blink of an eye. They are slowly eroded over time. Whether or not you agree with the argument behind the second amendment, it's a constitutionally guaranteed right and I am against any law that allows infringement upon that right at the discretion of government officials. That said, I'd be 100% fine with cops making decisions on concealed carry permits if open carry was legal.
I'd definitely agree that carrying a hidden weapon is not the best option. For one, if there is an asshole with a gun, he's going to be a lot less likely pull it out and start firing if he sees a sidearm on someone else's hip. That's why I think open carry is a far better solution. It's also far safer for cops and people carrying the guns. You see me with a gun on my hip and you approach me, I'm willing to bet the first thing you're going to say to me is going to have something to do with the weapon you see on my hip, am I right? There's no mystery for you either. You don't have to wonder if I am carrying or be scared of me reaching for my belt.
As for the rest of the argument, I will let it go here. I actually think Rolo's argument is the most persuasive argument in this thread so far, even above my own. If statistics show there's not much solid correlation between concealed carry and gun violence, then who really gives a shit either way?
