Ep 121. Americas Battle Over Gun Control

In season 3 episode 121 of Larry King Now, the topic of discussion is the ongoing battle over gun control in America. The episode features a panel of experts and advocates with varying opinions on the issue, including Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner, executive director of MomsRising; Ladd Everitt, director of communications for the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence; and Dan Gross, president of the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence.

The discussion kicks off with Larry King asking the panelists to share their opinions on the Second Amendment and the right to bear arms. Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner argues that the Second Amendment does not give individuals an unrestricted right to own any type of weapon they choose and emphasizes the importance of responsible gun ownership. Ladd Everitt stresses that the Second Amendment should not be interpreted as an absolute right and highlights the need for common-sense gun laws to prevent gun violence. Dan Gross acknowledges the importance of the Second Amendment but argues that it is not an impediment to enacting laws that protect public safety.

The conversation then shifts to the issue of background checks, with Larry King asking the panel if they believe universal background checks should be implemented. Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner is in favor of universal background checks and believes they are a crucial step towards ensuring that only responsible individuals have access to firearms. Ladd Everitt argues that universal background checks are necessary to keep guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals, noting that background checks are supported by a majority of Americans. Dan Gross agrees that background checks are an important tool for preventing gun violence, but stresses the need for other measures like safe storage laws and red flag laws.

The panelists also discuss the role of mental illness in gun violence and the need for improved access to mental health care. Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of gun violence and argues that mental health care is a critical piece of the puzzle. Ladd Everitt agrees that mental health care is important, but stresses the need for common-sense gun laws in addition to improved access to mental health care. Dan Gross points out that individuals with mental illness are more likely to be victims of gun violence than perpetrators and highlights the need for better reporting of mental health records to the national background check system.

The conversation concludes with Larry King asking the panelists if they believe it is possible for America to find common ground on the issue of gun control. Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner is hopeful that Americans can come together to find solutions to prevent gun violence, pointing to the success of grassroots organizations like MomsRising in advocating for common-sense gun laws. Ladd Everitt believes that finding common ground will require compromise on both sides, but is optimistic that it can be achieved through dialogue and a willingness to listen to different perspectives. Dan Gross agrees that compromise is necessary and stresses the need for a united front to address the issue of gun violence.

Overall, the episode provides a thoughtful and nuanced discussion of the issue of gun control in America, with the panelists offering a range of perspectives on the various factors that contribute to gun violence and the best ways to prevent it. The conversation is both informative and engaging, with Larry King skillfully moderating the discussion and bringing out the different opinions of the panelists. For anyone interested in the ongoing debate over gun control, this episode is a must-watch.