Ryan no friend to Second Amendment
A Fence Post letter on Dec. 30 by Jerry Marches proclaimed Jim Ryan the best candidate for governor. I believe Herald readers should know some things before jumping to that conclusion.
Mr. Ryan does not believe in a right to defend your life in places other than your own property. Questioned by the Chicago Tribune about Right To Carry (RTC) legislation, Ryan responded, "I would veto. I believe reasonable people can differ on this issue but on balance, drawing from my experience as a law enforcement official, I believe we are better off without concealed-carry."
RTC is supported by the Illinois Sheriffs' Association and the 450,000-member Illinois Farm Bureau. That's a lot of reasonable people that disagree with Mr. Ryan.
Mr. Ryan's RTC position is also contrary to the Illinois Republican platform passed last year which states in part: "Illinois Republicans note with shock and dismay the growing climate of violence in Illinois' largest city and call upon Gov. Blagojevich and the General Assembly to enact such policies as may permit law abiding citizens to protect themselves, their families, their property and their businesses. Specifically, we strongly endorse and support the 2nd Amendment to the Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution. We believe every citizen (American) has the right to keep and bear arms. No state city or local law should be allowed to infringe upon this right; enactment of 'Concealed Carry' legislation offering permits to properly trained, law abiding citizens to bear concealed weapons for personal protection."
Why should I vote for a candidate who does not even follow the party's platform?
As far as gun owners and self-defense is concerned, Mr. Ryan is no friend of individual rights. Mr. Ryan, your support of the Second Amendment rings hollow.
Jack V. Forbes Jr.
Elgin