It is deeply concerning to hear President Joe Biden once again belittle Americans who exercise their Second Amendment rights by owning AR-15s. By mocking those who believe in defending themselves against potential government tyranny, Biden’s comments raise questions about his understanding and respect for the principles laid out by our Founding Fathers. The right to bear arms, including weapons used in warfare, was specifically recognized as a crucial safeguard against tyranny. The Founders emphasized that an armed citizenry acts as a deterrent against the rise of a tyrannical government.
While Founder Noah Webster reflected on the importance of an armed populace in preventing unjust laws enforced by a standing army, Patrick Henry stressed the need for every man to be armed. Thomas Jefferson even declared it the “right and duty” of citizens to be armed at all times. These sentiments demonstrate the Founders’ belief in the essential role of an armed citizenry in preserving liberty.
However, Biden’s recent comments indicate a disdain for the Founders’ vision. During a private fundraiser in California, Biden suggested that there are certain weapons citizens should not be allowed to own, dismissing the idea that the Second Amendment guarantees the right to own any weapon. His reference to not being able to own a cannon or a machine gun misses the point entirely. The Second Amendment is not about the unrestricted ownership of any weapon but about ensuring that citizens have the means to defend themselves against tyranny.
Furthermore, Biden’s mocking tone towards those who invoke the idea that the “tree of liberty is watered with the blood of patriots” is deeply troubling. Instead of understanding the concerns that lead individuals to value their Second Amendment rights, Biden flippantly suggests that to resist the government, one would need an F-16 or something more powerful than an AR-15. This dismissive attitude fails to acknowledge the growing concerns about an increasingly weaponized and biased government, as evidenced by recent actions of federal agencies targeting individuals based on their beliefs.
The actions of Biden’s FBI, DOJ, and IRS in targeting pro-lifers, traditional Catholics, and those opposed to woke curriculum, as well as the raid on a Montana gun store, have only heightened concerns about government overreach and the need for individuals to protect themselves. Americans value their right to own AR-15s and other firearms precisely because they hope to never have to defend themselves against their own government. However, the current climate and government actions make it difficult to ignore the possibility of such a need arising.
Rather than mocking and dismissing those who exercise their Second Amendment rights, President Biden should demonstrate a greater appreciation for the principles upon which our nation was founded. Respect for the individual right to bear arms and an understanding of the historical context behind it are essential for upholding the values of liberty and ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people.
