Gun control: A distraction from the real cause of violence?

Sen. Charles Grassley, of Iowa, on Capitol Hill earlier this month. Credit Drew Angerer/Getty Images

For all their dysfunction, the Republican Senate and House have managed to act with lightning speed in striking down a sensible Obama administration rule designed to stop people with severe mental problems from buying guns.

President Trump, who championed the National Rifle Association agenda as a candidate, is expected to sign the regressive measure. This, despite the Republican mantra that tighter control of mentally troubled individuals — not stronger gun control — is the better way to deal with the mass shootings and gun carnage that regularly afflict the nation.

The Senate voted Wednesday to join the House in revoking the rule. It would have required the Social Security Administration to add about 75,000 people, currently on disability support, to the national background check database and deny them gun purchases. These individuals suffer schizophrenia, psychotic disorders and other problems to such an extent that they are unable to manage their financial affairs and other basic tasks without help.

Violence is a cultural problem, not a technical problem.

If they are made illegal, it is true that only Criminals would have them. Not to mention all the people who have them, won't give them up and become criminals due to the legislation. I don't own a gun because I might be a tad more likely to use it more frequently than allowed by law. This is a good decision for me.

*sigh*

the logic of antis and the euros is -
guns are bad, because guns are bad because guns kill people.

there's no refuting their impeccable logic; I don't even try.

i just vote, avoid the topic with most people and donate to local and national causes for the 2nd amendment.

Yes, I believe so.

Gun control will not stop violence but it would stop a substantial number of deaths in the USA each year

and what IS the real cause of violence?

No, not a distraction.

yes, i believe so.