The Parable of the Young Congressman

Our lesson today is taken from the Book of Politics, chapter 2 verses one through five.

1. And it came to pass that there was great consternation in the second congressional District of Florida. A great plague had come over the land. People were dying including children. The the people we're demanding that something must be done.

2. The young congressman went to his leadership to seek advice and counsel. Client have a terrible dilemma he said. My voters demand something must be done. But, I received significant campaign funds from the NRA and they have told me that if I back legislation restricting gun ownership and use not only will they not back me they will back a candidate against me. I think something should be done but I don't know what to do it in this situation.

3. It is good that you have come to us said his leaders. These situations arise from time to time and must be handled carefully. You must convince your voters you are doing something without angering the NRA. We have been speaking with the leaders of the NRA and believe we have the answer. You and others should propose minimal legislation addressing gun control. For instance, raising the age to 21 in order to purchase guns; supporting legislation restricting ownership of guns from certain categories of people. Specifically, preventing those who have been adjudged to be psychopathic criminals as well as vague and unenforceable restrictions imposed on"dangerous" people. Also you can support the notion of better enforcement of registration requirements. Most importantly, you should talk about the need for more citizens to have guns to protect themselves and others.

4. The NRA will be on board with this. They of course like the idea of more people with guns and they know that the other proposals will have no meaningful effect on peoples purchasing and owning guns. But, they will be able to say that the Second Amendment and gun rights are once again under assault. That will enable them to raise more money and increase their wealth and power. You meanwhile will be able to tell your voters that you're doing everything you can to solve the problem. This is what we call a win win solution period

5. The young congressman felt great relief and thanked his leaders for solving this problem. That is why we are here he was told. In the future do not worry about problem such as these. Don't be anxious. Just come to us and we will tell you what to do. I can't tell you what a great relief this is to me said the young congressman. In the future I will not concern myself with problems such as these, knowing you will always tell me what to do. You can count on it said the leaders.