Just a quick summary of the latest in the "Assault Weapons" Ban renewal attempts.
Geek With A .45 has this public service announcement from AWBsunset.com.
The gist is that the bill to allow cops (but not us peasants) carry nationwide passed the House with a big majority. That means it's heading to the Senate where they suspect that DiFi will attempt to ammend her AWB renewal onto it. They mention that there are 20 working days in the Senate left before the AWB sunsets so it's likely that DiFi will make her move soon.
Say Uncle (who happens to be a brand new daddy) posts about a Brady Campaign press release that calls for Bush to stop playing political games & push for the AWB renewal.
Woth mentioning from the press release itself is the following:
"An aide to House Speaker J. Dennis Hastert (R-Ill.) has said privately that if Bush pushes for it, the ban will probably be reauthorized. But if he doesn't, the chances of legislation's passing this year are remote."
Which unfortunately confirms ( at least partially) my estimate of the House. They simply have enough anti-gun Representatives to pass it.
There is some good news & that comes from another post of Say Uncle's. It seems that certain politicians in tight races are opposing an AWB renewal. This doesn't mean we're out of the woods by any stretch, but it does show that even if you think pressuring yoru democratic congress-critter is futile, perhaps you're mistaken.
For a slightly differing opinion of our chances in the House, I'd recommend this post by Bartholomew Roberts which was made in response to this thread at the High Road. I don't agree with his conclusion, but I also don't doubt his figures on the matter. Until I have a bit more time to delve into the details all I can say is that he makes a good point, but not good enough to stop me from being concerned about what the House will do.
Bottom line is to stay vigilant & call your Senators now & urge them to filibuster both bills as well as to oppose both bills (the concealed carry for cops as well as the AWB renewal). & be ready to really light up the phones should either one make it to a vote on the Senate floor.
Posted by Publicola at June 25, 2004 04:33 PM"There is some good news & that comes from another post of Say Uncle's. It seems that certain politicians in tight races are opposing an AWB renewal. This doesn't mean we're out of the woods by any stretch, but it does show that even if you think pressuring yoru democratic congress-critter is futile, perhaps you're mistaken."
Sure they say they oppose it. It's an election year. One ecpents a big upsurge in prevarication in an election year. Note carefully, that when they say they oppose the AWB, that their normal constituants don't immediately leap screaming to their feet. That's because their constituants KNOW they're lying.
Posted by: Bill at June 26, 2004 09:05 PM