Harold H. Horstmann
Lohman
Dear Editor:
I commend the News Tribune for its pro-law enforcement Nov. 12 commentary "Don't let thieves have the upper hand." It's great to have that philosophy supported by our newspaper and community vs. the ridiculous, and I might add stupid policies, of the leftist Democrat-run cities demonizing and defunding the police.
I also give kudos to Gov. Mike Parson's continuing support for law enforcement. I applaud his decision to allow the lawful execution of Ernest Johnson. In this day of our culture being overwhelmed by crime and corruption, it's extremely rare to find any judge or politician with the courage to stand by decisions rendered by the courts rather than be swayed by political considerations and a myriad of citizens' opinions and feelings.
I also support Parson's courageous position in protecting state's rights and our Second Amendment rights on gun control. I refer to a Nov. 8 article by A.W.R. Hawkins. "Establishment Media up in Arms over Missouri Law Nullifying Federal Gun Control" (breitbart.com/politics/2021/11/08/media-missouri-law-federal-gun-control/). Quotes from the article: "On June 13, 2021, Breitbart News reported that Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, R, signed SAPA, which was contained in HB 85." WLBT News noted that SAPA "prohibits the enforcement of federal gun laws by local law enforcement agencies." "Parson commented on SAPA, saying: 'This legislation today draws a line in the sand and demonstrates our commitment to reject any attempt by the federal government to circumvent the fundamental right Missourians have to keep and bear arms to protect themselves and their property.'"
This is the United States of America, not Amerika! I feel it is the intent of our federal government to, by fiat or turning a blind eye to, promote and/or allow the complete disregard and/or elimination of our First and Second Amendment rights.
Another quote from the article: "On November 5, 2021, CNN explained that legislators "in at least 17 states have introduced bills this year taking aim at possible federal gun restrictions." This proves that Missouri does not stand alone with concerns of federal government overreach which is being demonstrated regularly in virtually every department of the federal government.
Missouri is blessed to have Parson as a courageous leader and a legislature who clearly understands and courageously defends our constitutional rights and is willing to work to keep us free!