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Contributed commentary by Terry Miksic endorsing Kent Griffy:
Being both an NRA and a TFA member and a retired military lieutenant colonel, I accept that as legislatures pass new gun laws, it’s going to take an open, inquisitive mind and effort to protect our Second Amendment rights. Laws must be passed with due process, with our rights foremost. Mr. Kent Griffy has been singled out as approving of Red Flag laws.
In discussions with him, this is not the case. When publicly quoting someone, give the entire answer or it looks and smells like a political hit piece. During a forum (State House Republican candidates discuss school vouchers, gun control, highway funding) the question was asked by Chris Smith, “In response to recent gun violence in Uvalde and Buffalo, this week a bipartisan group in Congress has worked out a deal where they would provide federal funding to states to implement Red Flag laws. How do you feel about Red Flag laws, and do you think that would be appropriate if it came with federal funding to the state of Tennessee?”
Griffy’s answer (given in full by Clarksville Now): “The Red Flag law has been introduced but to my knowledge it hasn’t passed yet. The Red Flag law I believe will be a good thing, I’ve not read the details of it to say I totally support it or totally am against it. I certainly would if it passes. I think we always need to put ourselves in a position for caution and we need to make sure we are providing safety but not taking away from people’s rights.”
This is a statement made in a stressful situation without knowing what the bill says. This is not a “pat” political response but one that is intelligent and truthful. One looks for this in a good legislator. In an earlier conversation with him, we talked of gun violence. He is against any Red Flag law that is done without due legal process.
Kent Griffy is not playing at politics, he is not attacking his opponents, but is putting out his qualifications, his beliefs, and his desire to ensure that he will do what it takes to protect not just gun rights but all rights. Laws must protect law-abiding citizens, therefore the continued violence by criminals and the mentally compromised must be addressed in a bipartisan effort. Blatantly ignoring this violence isn’t working.
Terry Miksic