Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Matt Gaetz for U.S. Attorney General!? ~ You Had me at Political Retribution!

Opinion

Matt Gaetz as U.S. Attorney General? It’s the gift that keeps on giving—for the memes, the mainstream media meltdowns, and most importantly, the Second Amendment enthusiasts.

If you thought the swamp was draining slowly, Trump just turned on the industrial pump with Gaetz at the helm. Critics are howling, the Justice Department is shaking, and honestly, isn’t that the point?

The Man, The Myth, The Meme Generator

Gaetz doesn’t just scare the Democrats—he terrifies them. Why? Because he’s unapologetically pro-gun, razor-sharp, and—dare we say it—vindictive in all the right ways. He’s the type of guy who looks at political retribution not as a consequence, but as a perk of the job. While others cower at the thought of Twitter storms or media hit pieces, Gaetz thrives on them. He’s not just playing 4D chess; he’s flipping the board and taking a victory lap while the pieces are still mid-air.

“Abolish the ATF”—Three Words That Speak Volumes

Let’s not forget the legendary “Abolish the ATF Act.” Sure, it didn’t pass, but it wasn’t about passing. It was about sending a message. Gaetz doesn’t waste time with half-measures. Whether he’s grilling the ATF for losing thousands of guns or calling out the DOJ for its “rules for thee but not for me” antics, he’s a bulldog with a mission. And now, he’s poised to be the top law enforcement officer in the nation. Imagine the possibilities.

The Mainstream Media Freakout: A Badge of Honor

The louder the left screams, the more we know Gaetz is the right choice. John Bolton called it “the worst nomination for a cabinet position in American history.” Senator Lisa Murkowski said, “This wasn’t on my bingo card.” Well, Lisa, welcome to the Gaetz era, where bingo cards don’t matter, but results do.

Enemies on All Sides: A Feature, Not a Bug

It’s not just the Democrats who fear Gaetz—plenty of Republicans do, too. That’s because Gaetz doesn’t play the establishment’s game. He ousted Kevin McCarthy, took on the ATF, and didn’t blink. For a guy with a track record like that, being labeled “divisive” is practically a compliment.

Political Retribution: Why We Love Him

Let’s be real—when Gaetz promises political retribution, we’re here for it. The Justice Department has been weaponized for too long against conservatives, gun owners, and anyone who doesn’t toe the progressive line. If Gaetz is promising to level the playing field, sign us up. Retribution isn’t just fair—it’s overdue.

America’s Next AG: A Second Amendment Warrior

Ultimately, Gaetz represents what many of us want: a fighter. Someone who’s not afraid to throw punches, call out hypocrisy, and defend our God-given rights. Whether it’s abolishing the ATF or holding government agencies accountable, Gaetz is ready to shake the system to its core.

Gaetz for AG is just an excellent choice. Pair him with Brandon Herrera as head of ATF, and we could see incredible rollbacks of rules infringing on our RKBA. And to everyone clutching their pearls about his past? Save it. We don’t need a saint; we need a warrior. So grab your popcorn, folks, because the Gaetz era is about to begin, and it’s going to be glorious.

Brandon Herrera Should Lead the Trump Administration’s ATF ~ UPDATE! 27163 Yes Votes!

Matt Gaetz May Scare Democrats More Than President-Elect Trump Does



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The Myth Of “Lethality”: David Thompson’s Powerful Legal Defense of the ‘Dangerous’ AR-15 Rifle ~ VIDEO

At the 2024 Federalist Society Conference, David Thompson, managing partner at Cooper & Kirk and one of the nation’s foremost litigators, working directly with the Second Amendment Foundation, delivered a compelling defense of the AR-15 rifle.

With 44 million AR-15s owned across the U.S., Thompson dismantled the narrative that the rifle’s “lethality” justifies banning it, highlighting how such arguments ignore the Second Amendment’s purpose, legal precedent, and the role of firearms in preserving freedom.

Thompson’s speech not only educated but also energized pro-Second Amendment advocates, reminding them that technological advancements in firearms are a feature of liberty, not a flaw.

Lethality: The Anti-Gun Argument

In his speech, Thompson addressed the growing trend among anti-gun advocates and lower courts to label firearms like the AR-15 as “too dangerous for civilian ownership” due to their perceived “unprecedented lethality.” This argument has been weaponized to support bans on AR-15s and standard 30-round magazines, which are owned by millions of law-abiding Americans.

Thompson called this narrative both factually and constitutionally flawed.

“The entire history of firearms is the relentless, continual search for more lethality and more accuracy,” he explained. “These are instruments that determine your life or your death, whether you live free or as a slave.”

This focus on a firearm’s potential danger shifts the legal conversation away from its common use by law-abiding citizens, a cornerstone of the Supreme Court’s Heller decision.

The Supreme Court’s Clear Guidance

Thompson’s analysis rooted itself in precedent, particularly the Supreme Court’s 2008 Heller ruling. That decision established that firearms commonly owned by law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes, such as self-defense, cannot be banned.

By this test, the AR-15, which is overwhelmingly used for self-defense, target shooting, and hunting, is protected. “99.999% of AR-15s will never be used in any criminal activity,” Thompson said. The rifle’s popularity and lawful ownership place it firmly within the Constitution’s protections.

Thompson also addressed claims that AR-15 rifles are “military weapons” unsuitable for civilian use. He explained that AR-15s are semi-automatic, firing one bullet per trigger pull, unlike the fully automatic firearms used by militaries. Far from being “too dangerous,” the AR-15’s design makes it accessible, accurate, and effective for civilians defending themselves or their families.

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The Founders & Firearms Evolution

Thompson dispelled the myth that the Founders couldn’t have envisioned modern firearms like the AR-15. He pointed to historical records, including a 1775 demonstration before the Continental Congress of a firearm capable of firing 20 rounds without reloading. This early innovation proves that the Founders were aware of—and embraced—advances in firearms technology.

Justice Antonin Scalia echoed this sentiment in Heller, ridiculing the idea that the Second Amendment protects only firearms existing at the time of the Founding.

“The Constitution protects advancements in arms as much as it protects advancements in speech or the press,” Thompson said.

AR-15 Bans: Misguided & Dangerous

A major flaw in anti-gun arguments, Thompson noted, is the attempt to redefine the Second Amendment’s protections by focusing on criminal misuse of firearms. Courts have entertained the idea that AR15 weapons and similar firearms can be banned because criminals might use them in harmful ways. But Thompson emphasized that the Constitution was designed to protect law-abiding citizens’ rights, not to cater to hypothetical abuses.

“The features of the AR-15 that make it accurate and effective for self-defense are the same features being twisted into reasons to ban it,” Thompson argued. “The focus should always be on how these firearms empower law-abiding Americans—not on how criminals misuse them.”

A Broader Lesson: Why Lethality Matters

Thompson’s most profound point may have been this: the Second Amendment was written precisely because firearms are effective tools. Their lethality is not a constitutional bug—it’s a feature. Citizens need reliable, effective firearms to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.

“Lethality isn’t the problem,” Thompson said. “It’s the solution when it comes to defending your home or your freedom.”

He warned that using lethality as a reason to ban firearms undermines the Second Amendment’s purpose and sets a dangerous precedent that could erode other rights.

Standing Firm on the Second Amendment

David Thompson’s speech at the Federalist Society Conference was a rallying cry for Second Amendment advocates. By grounding his arguments in history, legal precedent, and common sense, Thompson exposed the flaws in the “lethality” narrative and defended the AR-15’s place as a vital tool of self-defense and freedom.

For millions of Americans, the AR-15 represents more than a firearm—it’s a symbol of their constitutional right to protect themselves and their families. Thompson’s message was clear: technological advancements and effectiveness in firearms are fully consistent with the Second Amendment, and banning AR-15s is not only unconstitutional but an affront to the principles of liberty.

We Are Winning: How the Bruen Decision Reinforced Our Second Amendment Rights ~ VIDEO

Fact Check: The Founding Fathers *DID* Know About Repeating Rifles

 



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Opening Brief Filed in New Jersey “Assault Weapon” Ban Appeal

New Guns Black Rifles Ar15 Modern Sporting Rifles
Black Rifles Ar15 Modern Sporting Rifles

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced that it has filed its opening brief with the Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in Cheeseman v. Platkin, its lawsuit challenging New Jersey’s ban on so-called “assault weapons.” The brief can be viewed at firearmspolicy.org/cheeseman.

Earlier this year, the district court held that New Jersey’s ban was unconstitutional “as to the Colt AR-15 for use of self-defense within the home” but left the rest of the restrictions in place. Both sides appealed the court’s ruling.

“The principles established by Heller and confirmed by Bruen should make this a straightforward case,” argues the brief. “The paradigmatic semiautomatic firearm banned by New Jersey is the AR-15 platform rifle. Thirty years ago, the Supreme Court described the AR-15 as a ‘civilian,’ ‘commonplace,’ ‘generally available,’ and ‘traditionally … lawful’ firearm. It remains ‘commonly available,’ and according to the agency charged with administering the Nation’s firearms laws it is ‘one of the most popular firearms in the United States.’”

“The weapons banned by New Jersey are common numerically, categorically, and jurisdictionally. But too many lower courts are ignoring binding Supreme Court precedent because they do not like what the Constitution means. The district court in this case was wrong to uphold the majority of New Jersey’s ban on constitutionally protected arms. We will continue to fight forward and work to eliminate all of these laws throughout the United States,” said FPC President Brandon Combs.

The Cheeseman case is part of FPC’s high-impact strategic litigation program, FPC Law, aimed at eliminating immoral laws and creating a world of maximal liberty. FPC is joined in the litigation by two FPC members. FPC thanks FPC Action Foundation for its strategic support of this FPC Law case.

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Firearms Policy Coalition

Firearms Policy Coalition (firearmspolicy.org), a 501(c)4 nonprofit membership organization, exists to create a world of maximal human liberty, defend constitutional rights, advance individual liberty, and restore freedom. We work to achieve our strategic objectives through litigation, research, scholarly publications, amicus briefing, legislative and regulatory action, grassroots activism, education, outreach, and other programs. Our FPC Law program (FPCLaw.org) is the nation’s preeminent legal action initiative focused on restoring the right to keep and bear arms throughout the United States. Individuals who want to support FPC’s work to eliminate unconstitutional laws can join the FPC Grassroots Army at JoinFPC.org or make a donation at firearmspolicy.org/donate. For more on FPC’s lawsuits and other pro-Second Amendment initiatives, visit FPCLegal.org and follow FPC on Instagram, X (Twitter), Facebook, and YouTube.

We Are Winning: How the Bruen Decision Reinforced Our Second Amendment Rights ~ VIDEO



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Judiciary Chairman Durbin’s Sudden Change of Heart on Display During Gun Control Hearing

Opinion
By Larry Keane

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iStock-Fokusiert

The implications from last week’s election results are reverberating through the halls of Congress quickly. The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing titled How Bump Stocks and Other Conversion Devices are Amplifying the Gun Violence Epidemic, and Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) struck a noticeably different tone than his usual combative anti-Second Amendment style, seeking instead to offer to work together with Republicans in the new Congress when majority control flips sides.

“I hope to be able to work with the new incoming chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Chuck Grassley,” said Chairman Durbin.

The chairman, of course, works closely with President Joe Biden’s administration and The White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention to carry out the president’s gun control agenda. Remember, President Biden deemed the firearm industry “the enemy” from the debate stage in 2019. The past four years has seen plenty of combative committee hearings where gun control-supportive senators attacked lawful gun owners and the lawful and highly-regulated firearm arm industry.

The subject of the hearing after all was devices that are overwhelmingly used by criminals to commit acts of violence by those skirting existing laws.

Opening Video Déjá Vue

Starting things off to set the tone for the hearing, Chairman Durbin used a favored play call during these gun control hearings. He played a video montage of numerous heinous actions committed by criminals misusing firearms as a way of arguing why more laws are needed on law-abiding Americans.

After the video montage of criminal violence, Chairman Durbin continued his opening remarks.

“Glock switches, which are banned under federal law are cheap, often costing less than $20, and they’ve been increasingly common across our country,” the chairman said. “We must act. Gun manufacturers can and should do more to ensure their products cannot be converted into illegal machine guns. If manufacturers fail to act, Congress should take up legislation to hold these companies liable for the foreseeable consequences of their actions.” Of course, the White House coordinated with Everytown and The City of Chicago to sue Glock under this baseless legal theory; and is the subject of an ongoing congressional investigation.

Chairman Durbin gives away his authority here as he knows well lawful firearm manufacturers cannot and should not be held liable for the criminal actions of unaffiliated remote third parties. This is the cornerstone of American jurisprudence and codified in the bipartisan Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) that countless gun control activists wish to eliminate. The chairman said it himself – these illegal firearm conversion devices like Glock switches are already illegal. Prosecutors need to get tough and hold criminals accountable for committing these horrible crimes.

Key Witnesses Back Enforcement and Constitutional Rights

The hearing on gun violence and conversion devices was scarcely attended due to Republican members holding their new leadership elections, so the committee attendees were only Democratic senators. But behind the witness table were two strong Second Amendment advocates who offered clear and succinct testimony in favor of more law enforcement and protecting Constitutional rights, not more gun control on law-abiding Americans.

Zach Smith is a senior legal fellow at the Heritage Foundation and got right to the point during his opening statement.

“Fundamentally, today’s hearing is focused on the wrong solution, aimed at the wrong problem,” Smith stated. “Contrary to the title of today’s hearing, there is not a gun violence epidemic in our country, but there is a violent crime epidemic, and unfortunately, too many elected leaders are refusing to take the simple yet necessary steps needed to combat this crime epidemic, namely funding the police and prosecuting criminals.”

“Often today, criminals are treated as victims and the true victims are the forgotten component when discussing crime, violence, and criminal justice reforms,” Smith added.

It’s a familiar feeling in cities across the country where George Soros-funded prosecutors immediately went soft on criminals when they took office and then oversaw dramatic crime surges in there cities. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg comes to mind. So does Los Angeles District Attorney George Gáscon, who was just denied from reelection from voters. Closer to Chairman Durbin’s home of Chicago, Cook County State Attorney Kim Foxx realized what voters had in store for her and didn’t seek reelection.

FFL compliance attorney and Second Amendment rights advocate, who has also worked for NSSF, Ryan Cleckner also testified. He echoed similar sentiments as Smith’s prior testimony.

“Now, these conversion devices or Glock switches or auto Sears, they are absolutely machine guns, okay? The National Firearms Act…and later laws like the Gun Control Act says that any parts that can be used to convert a firearm into a machine gun are also a firearm,” Cleckner explained. “They’re already heavily regulated. They’re already completely illegal. The ATF is already going outta the way to enforce this rise that we have with them being used.”

“I think the way that we solve this problem is not to make an item more illegal. Because it’s status of being a significantly illegal item does nothing apparently to stop these criminals from using them,” Cleckner said. “I think what’s gonna stop their use is if we actually prosecute the criminals that are using these illegal items.”

Root Cause Ignored

As mentioned, the hearing was shorter than normal and only a few senators attended to ask questions. But there was a common theme coming from their questions – ignoring the criminals. U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) both remarked and criticized the PLCAA that protects the firearm industry from being held responsible for the actions of criminals.

The other gun control witnesses focused on many of the same talking points as well – ignoring the criminals committing the crimes, blaming the firearm industry for criminal firearm misuse and pushing more gun control restrictions on law-abiding Americans.

With a new Republican Senate majority taking over in January 2025, as well as the House of Representatives staying in Republican control and President-elect Donald Trump returning to The White House too, policy discussions in Washington will likely return again to focusing on safeguarding Constitutional rights like the Second Amendment and getting back to holding criminals accountable for their violent actions.

President-Elect Trump: Disband White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention Immediately

About The National Shooting Sports Foundation

NSSF is the trade association for the firearm industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of thousands of manufacturers, distributors, firearm retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations, and publishers nationwide. For more information, visit nssf.org

National Shooting Sports Foundation



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Tuesday, November 19, 2024

We Are Winning: How the Bruen Decision Reinforced Our Second Amendment Rights ~ VIDEO

At the 2024 Federalist Society National Lawyers Convention, Professor Mark W. Smith delivered a compelling speech on the Second Amendment, emphasizing the Supreme Court’s decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen and its profound impact on gun rights in America.

Understanding the “Unqualified Command” of the Second Amendment

Professor Smith began by highlighting the Supreme Court’s characterization of the Second Amendment as an “unqualified command.” This designation underscores that the right to keep and bear arms is fundamental and not subject to arbitrary restrictions. He stressed that any ambiguity in historical context should default to the clear text of the Second Amendment, ensuring that the government bears the burden of justifying any limitations on this right.

The Role of Historical Analogues in Gun Control Legislation

A significant portion of the speech focused on how courts should evaluate historical precedents when assessing modern gun control laws. Professor Smith outlined key criteria for determining suitable historical analogues:

  • Actual Laws: Only enacted laws, not mere proposals or societal norms, should be considered.
  • Relevant Time Period: The primary focus should be on laws from 1791, the year the Second Amendment was ratified, as these reflect the original understanding of the right.
  • Constitutional Consistency: Historical laws rooted in unconstitutional practices, such as those based on racial discrimination, should be disregarded.
  • Prevalence and Duration: Laws that were widespread and enduring carry more weight than isolated or short-lived statutes.

By adhering to these guidelines, courts can ensure that modern interpretations of the Second Amendment remain faithful to its original intent.

Applying the “Why” & “How” Analysis

Professor Smith introduced the “why” and “how” framework to assess the relevance of historical laws to contemporary issues:

  • Why: The purpose behind the historical law.
  • How: The method by which the law was implemented.

He illustrated this with the Supreme Court’s decision in District of Columbia v. Heller, where the Court found that historical bans on “dangerous and unusual” weapons did not justify modern handgun bans, as handguns are commonly used for lawful purposes today.

The Impact of Bruen & Rahimi on Second Amendment Jurisprudence

Discussing the Bruen decision, Professor Smith noted that the Court rejected New York’s restrictive “may issue” permitting system, finding no historical precedent for such limitations on public carry. He also addressed the Rahimi case, emphasizing that it represents a routine application of the principles established in Heller and Bruen, reinforcing the necessity for courts to adhere to historical context when evaluating gun control measures.

Guarding Against Overgeneralization

To prevent the erosion of Second Amendment rights through overly broad interpretations, Professor Smith proposed several safeguards:

  • Consistency with the Second Amendment’s Text: Derived principles must not contradict the explicit guarantee of the right to keep and bear arms.
  • Alignment with Supreme Court Precedent: Any historical principle must be in harmony with established Court rulings.
  • Focus on Law-Abiding Citizens: The analysis should center on the rights of lawful individuals, not the actions of criminals.
  • Preservation of the Amendment’s Purpose: Any derived principle should uphold the Second Amendment’s role in protecting against tyranny and ensuring self-defense.

By implementing these measures, courts can maintain a faithful interpretation of the Second Amendment, safeguarding it from dilution through generalized reasoning.

Let’s Get it Done!

Professor Smith’s address serves as a vital reminder of the importance of adhering to the original understanding of the Second Amendment. His insights provide a robust framework for evaluating modern gun control laws, ensuring that the fundamental right to keep and bear arms remains protected for future generations.

How Has the Bruen Decision Impacted the 2nd Amendment Litigation Landscape? ~ DEEP DIVE

Unpacking Court Mistakes in 2nd Amendment Cases: How Courts are Twisting Your Gun Rights! ~ DEEP DIVE

 



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Stallone Cozying Up to Trump is Pragmatism, Not Principle

Forget a fake punch to the jaw. Donald Trump considering Stallone for a National Endowment of the Arts role was a slap in the face to the gun owners who elected him.
This isn’t the first time Stallone, who has called for the government to disarm Americans at gunpoint, has associated himself with Trump supporters without actually being one himself. (Daily Mail US/Twitter)

“Sylvester Stallone calls President-elect Trump ‘second George Washington’ during AFPI Gala introduction,” Fox News reports. “Stallone also likened Trump to his ‘Rocky’ character by saying he was ‘going to go through a metamorphosis and change lives’.”

After A-Listers like George Clooney and Julia Roberts, and practically all the rest of the Hollywood community that can attract major press came out strong for Kamala Harris, it’s refreshing to find a major “star” not afraid to side with MAGA, right? He must be one of us! No?

Not so fast. Stallone did not risk his future box office draw by endorsing Trump in the time leading up to the election and he still hasn’t told us how he voted. What we find instead is he “admitted to not voting in the 2016 and 2020 elections.”

But that hasn’t stopped him from hitching his wagon to Trump’s before. And for his part, Trump, who is making his own show of promoting unity, is not going to say “No” to publicity that bolsters his own ego and celebrity image.

Still, sharing the winner’s celebration while staying out of the contest hardly seems consistent with a “Rocky” reference, and Stallone compounded that by invoking the name of Arnold Schwarzenegger, a Never-Trumper “Republican” and hypocritical gun prohibitionist who used his star power to endorse Kamala Harris and her agenda.

That should have been no surprise to any but the willfully ignorant. We knew Arnold was wrong for California gun owners before he was crowned by the Establishment to be governor. Those warnings were borne out after he was elected, first by his signing a law to ban .50 caliber rifles, then microstamping and lead ammo ban bills, and then a handgun ammo registration law.

And when it comes to grabbing guns, Stallone could very well tell Schwarzenegger to hold his beer.

“Until America, door to door, takes every handgun, this is what you’re gonna have,” Stallone declared after comedian Phil Hartman was murdered by his wife. It wasn’t just an observation; it was a call to action.

“It’s pathetic. It really is pathetic. It’s sad. We’re living in the Dark Ages over there. It has to be stopped, and someone really has to go on the line, a certain dauntless political figure, and say, ‘It’s ending, it’s over, all bets are off.’ It’s not 200 years ago, we don’t need this anymore, and the rest of the world doesn’t have it. Why should we?”

There’s plenty more hypocrisy, including photos of Stallone pumping his fist at a Brady Center event, and his own Los Angeles concealed carry permit (impossible-to-get at the time for ordinary citizens). Speaking of pumping his fist, Stallone “joked” about “injecting” a former girlfriend with his, which would be a red flag for anyone else.

Stallone is counting on most people not remembering any of this and – without committing himself to MAGA principles – capitalizing on a movement that motivated 76 million Americans to vote for it. And he’s not the only “celebrity” suddenly deciding that there’s a personal silver lining to minimizing the alienation from an audience/consumer demographic that is largely productive and employed. Cases in point in recent days  are Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski, making a pilgrimage to Mir-a-Lago, are keenly aware that MSNBC’s recent 51% plummet in viewers confirms that normal Americans are sick of their sh…enanigans.

Look for more celebrities to try to distance themselves from past statements of contempt for MAGA values now that it’s dawning on them – or their $tudio bo$$e$ – that the voters haven’t ushered in a new woke era of Kamala and a free pass to blurt out whatever offensive inanity against half the country that they feel like without consequences. Consider the “star” of Disney’s woke live action Snow White reboot, who characterized Trump voters as haters and cursed them with “no peace,” and who now, conceivably with no small amount of pressu…encouragement from panicky studio execs, fearing a(nother) multimillion dollar bomb), has issued a self-serving imitation of an apology.

It’s unlikely any gun owners (aside from Tim Walz or Never Trumper “Republican”-style Fudds) are still regularly watching MSNBC. It’s been harder to get “conservatives” on board with giving up on Disney, probably because it has been associated with Walt’s Main Street USA values for most of our lives. Ditto for Stallone, forever equated in the public mind with this “action hero” screen personas, as evidenced by comments posted under the subject Fox News report by “conservatives” frequenting the site:

“Stallone is a class act, and he’s shown how a celebrity should conduct themselves during an election,” one reader gushed. “Rocky still got it and I am glad he appreciates the good ole USA and a leader that stands to defend it’s [sic] freedom and way of life,” chimed in another.

It’s a good bet those singing the man’s praises don’t know he’s called for the government to raid their homes and disarm them with lethal force if it deems appropriate, and that those still relying on mainstream “news” won’t be exposed to information like that presented here. That’s a great opportunity for AmmoLand comment posters, who know better, to correct false impressions, have their arguments seen by a wider readership, grow our ranks, and hopefully, help expose a fraud or two along the way.

About David Codrea:

David Codrea is the winner of multiple journalist awards for investigating/defending the RKBA and a long-time gun owner rights advocate who defiantly challenges the folly of citizen disarmament. He blogs at “The War on Guns: Notes from the Resistance,” is a regularly featured contributor to Firearms News, and posts on Twitter: @dcodrea and Facebook.

David Codrea



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Meet One of the Country’s Worst Sheriffs… Garry McFadden

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden. (Photo from Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office).

Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden uses racially offensive language, fires longtime staff for little or no reason, delays firearm permits and promotes himself and his own interests rather than his staff.

Mecklenberg County is the largest county in North or South Carolina. It has more than 1 million residents, measures 546 square miles and has six townships including Charlotte, the 17th largest city in the country.

With nearly 1,100 employees, McFadden runs the largest law enforcement agency in either Carolina.

McFadden recently called one of his white deputies a “cracker” and a black deputy the N-word. Both were senior officers within his department.

“That white cracker captain is better than the other seven captains upstairs,” McFadden said. “I got Chief Collins. I don’t know who that n—-r is.”

The sheriff’s comments were secretly recorded by a member of his staff during a meeting in 2021. Just last week, McFadden said he was sorry for making the racist comments.

“It doesn’t matter who recorded or how many years ago it was recorded. Today, I want to apologize for that language,” the sheriff stated in a video press release. “Held to a higher standard – that’s the office of the Sheriff. But you must understand that I am human and I’m not perfect and I will make mistakes.”

The North Carolina Sherrif’s Association issued their own letter last week in disgust at what the Sheriff said and is investigating McFadden’s racist comments.

  • The North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association (the Association), representing all 100 sheriffs in our state, is aware of racially charged comments allegedly made by Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden that shock the conscience. The comments made on the recording are inflammatory, racially derogatory, insulting, and offensive.
  • The Association believes sheriffs are and should continue to be held to the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, principles, and morals and should serve their communities regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, or sex. Racially charged comments certainly do not meet those standards.
  • The preamble of the Association’s Constitution creates an Association that establishes “bonds of confidence, respect and friendship” among the sheriffs across the State, maintains peace for North Carolina citizens and residents, and seeks to gain the public’s confidence through the “courtesy, honesty, integrity, and dependability of the sheriffs of North Carolina.”
  • Therefore, pursuant to the Association’s Constitution and Bylaws, the Association’s Executive Committee (governing board) voted unanimously today to inquire further into this matter.

“Not perfect” is a good way for Sheriff McFadden to describe himself. He is still reeling from the loss of three top staffers. Last week, McFadden fired his Human Resources Director and his Business Manager. Both were Black women, and both accused McFadden of “fostering a toxic work environment.”

McFadden’s Chief Deputy, Kevin Canty, resigned earlier this month. Canty accused McFadden of “running the agency into the ground” and that it “functions like a third-world dictatorship.”

The Sheriff’s own chaplain, Aileen Maddox, quit after 13 years because of the Sheriff’s alleged racism. She now lives and works in Ohio.

McFadden declined to answer or address Maddox’s allegations, but he recently spoke about racism during a graduation ceremony for his deputies.

“If you believe I’m racist, you need to talk to me,” McFadden said. “If you believe I’m racist, you need to talk to the kids who come and see me. If you believe I’m racist, talk to the people who know me.”

Abuse of power

Canty certainly knows McFadden. McFadden’s hired Canty as his Chief Deputy last year, but Canty quit within months. Canty, too, accused his former boss of racism, verbal abuse and other misconduct.

Canty, who has been a cop for more than 33 years at four agencies, told the Charlotte Observer he has “never witnessed such dysfunction.”

Some of Canty’s criticisms were listed in a two-page report, part of which was published by the newspaper. The person he is addressing in his correspondence is Sheriff McFadden.

  • “I’ve witnessed firsthand your denigrating and unprofessional comments to your Command and Executive staff.
  • I’ve witnessed your blatant insecurities on full display as you accepted credit for all success and deflected blame and attributed all issues and problems to the staff. I’ve also witnessed you lie effortlessly, then throw a temper tantrum and attack the messenger when confronted with evidence that proved you lied.”
  • “The way you conduct yourself should be embarrassing to you and you frankly should be ashamed of yourself. The citizens of Mecklenburg County deserve better, as do the employees of the MCSO.”
  • “I have watched you marginalize and retaliate against not only me, but against anyone who dares to push back against your endless onslaught of insults and condescending language.”
  • “I also watched as you circumvented the Office of Professional Conduct (OPC) and discarded the results of internal investigations if you disliked the results, or if the employee was someone you liked. I’ve also witnessed you weaponize OPC to target employees you have a personal dislike for, instead of using that division to conduct objective, unbiased investigations of allegations of violations of policy and procedure.”
  • “I have also heard you use (racist) language, conduct beneath the dignity of the office of Sheriff.”

“It is my hope that one day you will develop the emotional maturity and introspection that real leaders possess. Sadly, I doubt it will happen, and the good men and women of MCSO and the citizens of Mecklenburg County will suffer for it,” Canty said in the close of his letter.

Canty was not available for an interview.

Firearm permits  

One of the most serious allegations against Sheriff McFadden involves firearms.

Gun Owners of America, Gun Owners Foundation, Grass Roots North Carolina, Rights Watch International and three individuals sued the Sheriff’s Office in November 2022, alleging that the agency violated state law when issuing permits to carry arms.

The lawsuit did not allege that the Sheriff’s Office violated North Carolina law but stated that there were delays that violated the United States Supreme Court’s 2022 case, New York State Rifle and Pistol Association v. Bruen.

The suit was settled last year.

“The settlement ends this lawsuit and allows MCSO better to serve the citizens of Mecklenburg County. It remains MCSO’s intention and Sheriff McFadden’s expectation that MCSO continue to comply with all statutory obligations related to concealed handgun permitting. Sheriff McFadden wishes to commend his hard-working staff for remaining in compliance with all statutory requirements regarding concealed handgun permitting,” the Sheriff’s Office said in a press release.

Of course, the Sheriff’s Office never addressed the allegations contained in a story by a local television station, WCNC Charlotte, which found the Sheriff’s Office “has a longstanding system in place that prevents people living in sobriety from legally concealing their guns when in public.”

When someone applies for a gun permit in North Carolina, their local law enforcement officials have the legal right to review their mental health.

According to a document obtained by the local television station, if records show that the applicant has attended Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, “no matter the year,” the Sheriff’s Office will deny their gun permit.

“Denial records obtained by WCNC Charlotte through a public records request show MCSO has cited unlawful use or addiction as cause for denials in hundreds of cases over the last decade, spanning two sheriffs,” the news story states. “By depriving people of concealed carry, you’re depriving them of their Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms.”

Sheriff McFadden declined to comment, but one of his spokespersons answered questions about this case.

“Sheriff Garry McFadden supports the Second Amendment rights; however, the sheriff must also abide by laws applicable to MCSO operations,” Public Information Manager Sarah Mastouri said in a statement last week. “Addiction to alcohol or drugs is a legal prohibitor to the issuance of a concealed handgun permit. MCSO’s permitting staff must abide by legal requirements for issuing concealed handgun permits. Therefore, MCSO considers every application as a unique set of data to be carefully evaluated. Indication of an applicant’s addiction to alcohol or drugs could include, without limitation, a medical history of addiction or participation in programs, such as Alcohol Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Less than 10% of MCSO’s concealed handgun permit denials are ever appealed, and a vast majority of those denials are upheld by the District Court.”

One local man who fought the Sheriff’s Office prohibition of his firearm license eventually won the case, although he spent more than $7,000.

Sherrif’s history

McFadden became the 45th Sheriff of Mecklenburg County on Dec. 4, 2018, after serving 36 years with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. He was reelected in 2022.

McFadden’s official bio states that he is a graduate of the Johnson C. Smith University, a historically Black Presbyterian university located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

“Notably, he was named Charlotte’s Citizen of the Year in 2015 and recognized by President Barack Obama for his work on the 21st Century Policing Initiative and the ‘Cops and Barbers’ program,” his bio states. “His unconventional methods and deep community ties helped him solve hundreds of murders, achieving one of the highest solve rates in CMPD history. This success led to his starring role in the television series ‘I Am Homicide,’ which highlighted his major cases, and his ongoing appearance in ‘Homicide City’ on the Investigation Discovery (ID) network. His contributions have been featured on national platforms like America’s Most Wanted, The First 48, The Justice Files, and People magazine.”

McFadden and his wife, Cathy G. McFadden, have been married for more than 33 years.

Sheriff McFadden did not return calls or emails seeking his comments for this story.

This story is presented by the Second Amendment Foundation’s Investigative Journalism Project and wouldn’t be possible without you. Please click here to make a tax-deductible donation to support more pro-gun stories like this.

About Lee Williams

Lee Williams, who is also known as “The Gun Writer,” is the chief editor of the Second Amendment Foundation’s Investigative Journalism Project. Until recently, he was also an editor for a daily newspaper in Florida. Before becoming an editor, Lee was an investigative reporter at newspapers in three states and a U.S. Territory. Before becoming a journalist, he worked as a police officer. Before becoming a cop, Lee served in the Army. He’s earned more than a dozen national journalism awards as a reporter, and three medals of valor as a cop. Lee is an avid tactical shooter.

Lee Williams



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