Imprisonment of Firearms

Presidential elections truly spark some unbelievable patriotism from both parties. American citizens are a breed of human beings who have sacrificed many gifts to provide hope, security and liberty to the country as a whole. For relative examples: General Ulysses S. Grant, also President, rose from the failures of business to become arguably one of the saviors of the Union during the Civil War. Dwight D. Eisenhower, president during the 1950’s, earned the rank of five-star general with the initiative and unending courage to defeat the Axis Powers in Nazi-occupied Europe. These gentlemen have solidified an American standard; establishing the importance of defending the Union, preserving a world power and the everlasting hope of maintaining a free nation. Freedom. What is it? A word commonly thrown around in the United States as a symbol of leadership in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The founding fathers forged untouchable beliefs, which have proven time and time again to be successful in their intended purpose and practice. Now, as we creep closer and closer to the most important election in American history, our freedoms have been strung up and are ready for the gallows. For the country’s future, there is only one who believes in America remaining a free state. In order to remain a free state, The Second Amendment of the Constitution is one of the freedoms which Hillary Clinton pursues to erase from existence. Let’s dissect the amendment and fully consider its importance. “A well-regulated Militia,”: Independence from the English Crown was not handed to colonists on a silver platter, they used their arms to negate the existence of royal rule. This militia, a defense mechanism set to overthrow any unauthorized threat of the federal government, can be initiated in preservation of The Bill of Rights. Framers who designed the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution specifically emphasized the power each citizen has to simply tell the government they cannot separate God-given rights. The second statement, “being necessary to the security of a free State,” ensures that people can protect themselves regarding their rights so freedom is a continued practice in each state. Security doesn’t mean bar up law abiding citizens and deny their ownership of firearms. According to the National Rifle Association’s Institute for Legislative Action, or NRA-ILA, the argument of individual rights has pressed much concern. The Clinton campaign breaths highly concerning messages about these individual rights, according to the very first sentence on Hillary’s campaign page. “I believe weapons of war have no place on our streets.” What happens when a person is walking on the street or alone in a house and they are attacked by a criminal threatening their life and this citizen is not armed with a firearm? As an NRA member, I understand the crucial necessity for firearms and the practice of gun-safety. I have been around firearms my entire life because of family hunting traditions and both my father and his brother’s service in the Pennsylvania State Police. The Clinton campaign makes gun owners seem like they are a ruthless species ready to mow down others. I argue fiercely that this lie is made in the establishment’s favor. People who have no experience with firearms and listen to the TV or the media are going to see firearms as an evil weapon of mass destruction. Within the NRA, I’m also a member of the Golden Eagles Division, which provides necessary funds for educational programs to explain to young shooters that firearms are not to be seen as a toy. Education is an essential part of firearms use. Some people may even argue that more people die as a result of firearms compared to defensive numbers. According to Professor Gary Kleck of Florida State University, an award-winning expert on crime who has conducted extensive research on firearms ownership and use in The United States, firearms were used as often as 2.5 million times a year for protection--three to five times more often, he says, than they are used for criminal purposes. In the vast majority of these protective cases, the gun is not fired. Another vital issue that Trump and Clinton disagree on is the future of the Supreme Court. In reference to Trump’s campaign website, Senator Orrin Hatch stated, “The next president’s picks mean the difference between democracy and tyranny.” Her appointments will obliterate the Second Amendment. The future politicians of The United States will bring forth change that will have a lasting impact through a national perspective. The Trump campaign wants to mend the broken pieces of the country and revive patriotism that has long passed us by. In order for the United States to be saved from changes that will shatter Constitutional rights and privileges, Trump seems to be the correct choice. Rights that are two-hundred and forty years old will not disappear from this Union. They will continue to be protected by the same mindsets and patriotism that was birthed during the Revolution.  - Zachary Mrochko

Build The Wall; Enforce The Law

When it comes to American security, a secure border between the United States and Mexico is a necessity. In order to ensure the safety and security of all Americans, as well as their economic prosperity, America’s doors must be locked at night. Yet for some reason, border security and illegal immigration had become a political issue rather than an American one. Republicans, and the republican nominee Donald Trump, have been attacked for believing that a completed border is a necessity for security and prosperity. When looking at statistics regarding illegal immigration though, the figures make it clear that border security is not racism, but patriotism. 

There are many ways that illegals enter the country, one of the primary methods being crossing the US-Mexican border. Current figures estimate that there are 11 million illegals in the country, about 60% coming across the border with the other 40% overstaying visas (Poli Fact).   

One main concern regarding illegal immigrants is that many are involved in gang and criminal activity. MS-13, one of the most violent gangs in America, is made up 90% of undocumented immigrants. These gangs deal drugs, assault women, and commit crimes such as robbery and arson (Civitas Institute). According to the National Gang Intelligence Center (NGIC), 80% of crime in the US is conducted by gang members, many of whom are illegal immigrants from Mexico (Judicial Watch).  

In addition, federal investigators estimate that approximately 2.2 million kilograms of cocaine were smuggled into the United States across the Mexican border in 2005, a figure that has likely gotten even higher over the past ten years.  Even more concerning, out of the 2,200 people who were handed federal sentences for drug possession in 2014, nearly three-quarters of them were illegal immigrants (Washington Examiner). Men and women all across the nation are dying from overdoses, the drugs being supplied by Mexico.  

To top that all off, murder statistics illustrate the disturbing amount of crime undocumented immigrants bring. Between 2008 and 2014, 40% of all murder convictions in Florida and 34% In New York were by immigrants, 90% of them illegal. Texas also is strongly affected, with the Texas Department of Public Safety reporting that between 2008 and 2014, 35% of the all murder convictions were handed to illegals (Breibart). 

Illegal immigrants also harm the US economy, as many illegals do not pay taxes, and many who do recoup the money when they file tax returns. Illegal immigration costs U.S. taxpayers approximately $113 billion per year, meaning that each household loses about $1,117 because of illegals (Federation for American Immigration Reform).  According to data collected by scholar Robert Rector, for every illegal immigrant family that leaves the US under Donald Trump’s plan, Americans would recoup nearly three-quarters of a million dollars ($719,350). 

These concerning figures illustrate that the individual we elect for the presidency needs to be serious about ending illegal immigration. However, only one of the two main candidates has promised to do so.  

While some have found Trump too blunt when discussing illegal immigration, Hillary Clinton has demonstrated that she doesn’t find illegal immigration a concern. She invited illegals to the Democratic Convention, has promised to give amnesty to undocumented aliens, and has supported sanctuary cities. She is against building a wall or even putting effort into finishing the fence.  

Trump on the other hand has discussed the importance of building a wall and ensuring individuals are not overstaying their visas by utilizing E-Verify. This isn’t about attacking Mexicans; it’s about ensuring that dangerous individuals are no longer entering our country. Trump, as well as republicans, have the upmost respect for individuals who leave behind everything to come to America LEGALLY. However, letting millions of individuals flow into our country, from ISIS members to drug dealers, is harming both natural born citizens and legal Americans.  

Letting illegals enter and stay in America is a reckless policy that causes security and economic issues, and we must elect a president who will take the problem of illegal immigration seriously and work to end it once and for all. Our country is one the line.  

Carissa Jones is a secondary Ed, history, political science major. She is President of the BU College Republicans.

Respect our Men and Women in Blue

          In a country that experiences mass shooting and threats from ISIS members, in a nation where families worry about break-ins and theft, we count on a certain group of individuals to keep us safe. These men and women, however, often do not receive the respect they deserve. They are stereotyped and criticized, even by persons who want to someday be called President. These individuals are our policemen and women.

            The men and women in blue who serve in America put their lives on the line to protect American citizens, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation. They bleed and die to keep residents safe. The majority are brave, honorable individuals who serve with everything they have. There are of course some policemen and women who have made mistakes, who never should have worn the badge, who have used unnecessary violence or made decisions based on racism. These acts are deplorable, and most be discussed, but they cannot be the mark to which we judge all in blue. We cannot stereotype all cops based on the actions of a few.

There has been a disturbing trend of disrespect to the police, often which comes about when protesting in the name of “Black Lives Matter,” or when discussing this movement. A recent example would be the performance of Beyoncé at the Superbowl, where her troop of all black dancers in Black Panther berets performed an anti-police song. The music video for such song, “Formation,” shows a sinking cop car, graffiti on a wall that says “stop shooting us,” and a young African-American man dancing in front of a line of cops.

            More disturbing, however, are some recent comments made by democratic presidential candidates, particularly Bernie Sanders. As Bernie panders to receive the African American vote, he stereotypes the police.

            Many comments he has made in just the last month demonstrate this trend. At a recent debate Sanders discussed how he talked to a Black Lives Matter individual, and why we need to end all the bullying and terrorizing that the police apparently commit. He then made it clear that white people don’t know what it is like to be poor or to be hassled by the police when  walking down the street (and contrary to the lies his supporters are spreading, when he said this he was NOT quoting anyone).

            At the Fox News Town Hall he continued his tirade. He stated, “In African American communities you have people who are living in desperation, often being abused by white police officers.”

            I am not saying that candidates should refrain from discussing real concerns by American citizens. However, Mr. Sanders seems to stereotype all police officers while rarely thanking the men and women for the great work they do protecting cities like Philadelphia which have a high rate of crime. Nobody believes that black lives matter more than the police do; they are the ones protecting these black lives in crime filled cities.

            Many criticize Donald Trump for stereotyping Muslims, for believing that the majority of Muslims are America hating terrorists. Of course, I disagree with Trump as the majority of Muslims are good, honest men and women. However, Bernie will criticize Trump for these statements then turn around and stereotype the police. Imagine if Bernie instead would have stated that non-Muslims are harassed daily by Muslims, that Muslims are bullies and terrorizers. People would not have cheered him on and called him a vehicle for equality.

            We need to make sure policemen and women are doing their job and not abusing their power. We need to take seriously concerns from African Americans regarding police and crime. We do not, however, need to stereotype and treat an entire group in a disgraceful way because of the actions of a few. We must respect those who die to keep us safe; we must respect our heroes in blue. 

Written by: Carissa 

Supreme Court

No one can doubt that America was founded on principles that truly have molded the nation into a society of creativity, individuality and power. These morals and laws separate the U.S. from other countries that belittle their people, dehumanize them and sever their ability to bring about change and opportunity to their family and country. The United States has been blessed with many brilliant minds which have formed the documents, such as the Constitution, that make America the most prosperous and beautiful nation in the world. Dedicated members of the government have served the country for the past 240 years and their wisdom and intellectual might lives and breaths in each and every American citizen. 

Recently the nation lost one of the greatest and more admirable modern defenders of the Constitution. Justice Antonin Scalia was an Associate U.S. Supreme Court Justice since 1986; nominated during the enlightenment period of President Ronald Reagan. After he graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor’s degree in History, Scalia entered the educational field of law and pursued an academic study of justice rather than continuing with his own practice. Justice Scalia was a key figure in the aftermath of the Watergate Scandal in 1972, dealing with legislative and executive controversies. After a professorship at the University of Chicago’s School of Law, Scalia was chosen by President Reagan in the early 80’s to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C. During this time, he developed his concrete mindset of conservatism and firm belief that the Constitution is not a living and breathing document, rather it was written and constructed to ultimately be the law of the land with no change or alteration. Justice Scalia was not just another government official who has had a successful career and made some changes to the nation, he was the modern backbone of the document that has been under fire the past few years. 

In essence, he was the man whom the Founding Fathers would have found very applicable to the defense and interpretation of the law. In response to the presentation article of our fellow Democrats, they seem to have highlighted his legacy from another point of view. As many people are aware, Justice Scalia’s death has unfortunately opened a seat for another position to be filled and both parties are at war over whether or not President Obama should nominate a candidate. As the law states, the president has the executive power to appoint a supreme court justice if and when a position is open, however, the main concern of Republicans is will Obama’s decision reflect a more liberal nominee. Conservatives argue that in order to solidify a bipartisan court, the next appointment must be made in 2017 as the new president takes office. This appointment is more than filling a chair, it is the future of many concerned citizens who fear that their Second Amendment will be breached and torn to shreds. Scalia has been known for his powerful support of the Second Amendment, which has been under attack due to the recent attacks and mass-shootings. What is the bigger picture here?

The importance of Scalia’s legacy should be concerned with how the country and its leaders should view his character and develop a level to which the next justice should meet. Democrats are outraged because any nominations from the Obama Administration will be blocked. As election time draws near and the road to the White House becomes even more challenging, Mr. Donald Trump, of the Trump Organization and Senators Ted Cruz, of Texas, and Marco Rubio, of Florida, have reasonably noted that President Obama should leave this critical appointment in the hands of the future president. In a long run outlook, maybe the best situation for filling Scalia’s position should be awaiting the arrival of the new president. If both parties can agree to place a hold on the nomination, they both have a promising chance to include their best choice of judge. This controversial showdown is not an impossible feat to overcome. 

According to National Public Radio, in 1991 President George H.W. Bush nominated Clarence Thomas for the Supreme Court. Thomas was confirmed by majority Democrats and placed into the position of justice. In further insight, Obama may hold his constitutional right to nominate a new face to the court, but if he or she will dilute the bipartisan cooperation within court decisions and cases, the fairest and most rational option is to wait until 2017. Republicans and Democrats can come to a more pinpointed decision closer to the general election and choose someone that tends to be the “middle man.” If the president chooses to use his power, congress will dismiss his choice. In argument, this selection process is more than the struggle between liberal and conservative views, it’s about replacing a nearly unparalleled member of true American fundamentals and values. Yes, this is a “catastrophic” blow to the conservative movement because Scalia’s model of the Jeffersonian mindset is truly the foundational building blocks of our history, culture, morals and national individualism. If politicians can work on looking at Justice Scalia’s history throughout his service in the judiciary system and education, then they will be better prepared in choosing the most productive and knowledgeable candidate for the U.S. Supreme Court. 

Written by: CR member Zac 

Defund Planned Parenthood

                When it comes to healthcare, it is imperative that women and men have access to birth control, STD testing services, and cancer screenings. It is also incredibly important that low-income individuals have a place to turn to receive affordable services. There are many comprehensive clinics that can provide these services, clinics that are not Planned Parenthood.

            Planned Parenthood should be defunded, and that money should be rerouted to community clinics which can help women and men receive the services they need. There are 13,540 comprehensive care clinics compared to 665 Planned Parenthoods in America: That is a ratio of 20:1 (The Daily Signal). Community health centers exist to provide comprehensive care to millions of uninsured Americans, so women and men would still have options.

            Planned Parenthood needs to be defunded for a host of reasons. One is their disregard for human life. To those who support abortion, it is a women’s right. To those opposed, it is the murder of a preborn baby. To the latter group, it is abhorrent that taxpayer money is funding the largest abortion provider in America. While federal money cannot go directly to abortions, it can go to other services, freeing up money to be used for abortions.

            While it is often stated that only 3% of services PP provides is abortions, this number has been shown to be a misrepresentation. PP performs about 330,000 abortions a year. By its own accounting in its 2013-2014 annual report, it provides about as many abortions as Pap tests (380,000). In addition, abortion is considered as a service that is no different than a pregnancy test, even though a box with two pregnancy tests can be bought from the store for less than $10 (NY Post). An abortion, on the other hand, can cost up to $1,500 according to PP’s website. So, money wise, abortions are a huge part of what Planned Parenthood does.

            Another concern with PP is the adoption referral to abortion ratio. In its annual report from 2012, Planned Parenthood claimed it did 327,166 abortion procedures in the course of one year and only 2,197 adoption referrals. That is approximately 149 abortions for each adoption referral. Women have consistently stated that they are not told about adoption, that they are made to believe abortion is the only choice for them. This is a tragedy, since for every 1 baby put up for adoption, there are 36 couples that wanted that child due to their own, or their partner’s, infertility (Lifenews).

            In addition, PP is not safe for young women. Recent undercover footage by Lila Rose’s Live Action organization shows Planned Parenthood employees in multiple states willing to aid in human sex trafficking of girls as young as 14. It caused Planned Parenthood to call for obligatory training workshops for thousands of its employees on requirements for reporting crime (SBA list).

            There are also many dangers of abortion that many individuals are unaware of. With abortion comes the risk of infection, excessive bleeding, embolism, ripping or perforation of the uterus, hemorrhage, cervical injury, and endotoxic shock (After Abortion).

            Not to mention, there are many psychological issues that can arise due to abortions. Many women through the Silent No More campaign have discussed their abortions and why they are now pro-life, explaining that they turned to drugs and sex out of regret. Many women claimed they had nightmares over what they did, and it impacted relationships with future children and their significant other.  

            Overall, women and men need the best reproductive care, but healthcare should be about saving lives, not ending lives. Money that previously backed Planned Parenthood can instead be distributed to Prolife centers that provide birth control, STD screenings, and cancer prevention/ identification services.

            We need to stop funding the largest abortion provider in America, and see that every life is precious. As Susan B. Anthony said, “No matter what the motive, love of ease, or desire to save from suffering the unborn innocent, the woman is awfully guilty who commits the deed. It will burden her conscience in life, it will burden her soul in death.”