The gun-control lobby is attempting to use the San Bernardino shooting for political fodder. The problem is that the incident occurred in California, a state they consider to be a model laboratory for gun restrictions.
They’ve chosen to sidestep that issue, and they’re proposing a new solution: bar anyone on a terrorist watchlist from owning firearms. If we don’t look too closely, it seems sensible. It also makes for good soundbites about security.
In practice, it’s a terrible idea, and it’s something that should offend anyone interested in civil liberties.
Consider the “no fly” list. One has no way of knowing whether they’re on it until they try to board a plane. If they are, it’s nearly impossible to find out why they’re on it. Aside from a feeble DHS program, there’s no way to redress the situation. Even that venue places the burden of proof on the accused.
It also bears mentioning that neither Farook or Malik were on the list. Continued...