Old advice, still good “Guns and Values” DLC Blueprint Magazine July 27, 2003

[jody]

We discussed the article below shortly after it was published but it’s worth rereading and discussing the 10-point primers in the article.

“Guns and Values” DLC Blueprint Magazine July 27, 2003

Democrats need a new way to frame the gun debate, because the old approaches to gun issues are proven losers.

Conventional wisdom now offers two basic choices: The first counsels Democrats to avoid mentioning gun issues altogether. Al Gore applied this "hope" strategy in the 2000 general election -- hoping the National Rifle Association and George W. Bush wouldn't define him as anti-gun -- and it failed miserably, with Gore carrying only 35 percent of gun owners.

The other strategy -- vocally opposing all new gun safety laws -- is also a loser. Just ask former Democratic Govs. Roy Barnes of Georgia, Don Siegelman of Alabama, and Jim Hodges of South Carolina. They played the NRA's tune and won its endorsement, yet all lost their re-election bids.

* * * * * * * * * * * *

Based on research on voters in Georgia, Maine, Pennsylvania, North Dakota, and a half-dozen other southern and western states, it is clear that Democrats can be politically rewarded for taking a position that shows genuine respect for gun owners, as well as a strong commitment to reducing gun crime. Here is a 10-point primer on how to seize control of the gun debate, with a powerful message that reflects mainstream values:

[villager]

1. While #9 is a typical DLC rhetorical flourish, and not reall a "suggestion" there is actually

...some basis in here for agreement on where to go with clearly out of whack gun policies/philosophies in this country.

Color me surprised, especially if the habitues of this lounge can bring themselves to agree!

[krispos42]

2. And yet, they are still harping on the "gun show loophole"

:banghead:

Three different arguments, plus the introduction.

[HiDemGunOwner]

3. And the scary assault gun ban n/t