Justices Debate Chicago Handgun ban

Chicago's 28-year-old strict ban on handgun ownership appeared in trouble Tuesday at the U.S. Supreme Court. The case involved the ability of state and local governments to enforce limits on weapons. A majority of conservatives claim that the U.S Constitution is already giving individuals greater power than the states. Or perhaps even equal power in terms of being able to possess certain firearms for self-protection. The question now appears to be how far is the court willing to go to preserve parts of the 14th amendment to allow some reasonable gun measures to remain in place. "There are provisions of the Constitution, of the Bill of Rights, that have been incorporated against the states, where the states have substantial latitude and ample authority to impose reasonable regulations," Justice Anthony Kennedy said. "Why can't we do the same thing with firearms?" At issue is also whether the constitutional "right of the people to keep and bear arms" applies to local gun control ordinances, or only to federal restrictions. This basic question has been left unanswered for decades. This gives the conservative majority on the high court another chance to allow Americans expanded weapon ownership rights. A ruling is expected in late June.

This appeal was filed by a Chicago, Illinois, community activist who sought a handgun for protection from gangs. Otis MacDonald announces that he wants a handgun to protect himself and his family from violence in his neighborhood. "That's all I want ... just a fighting chance," McDonald said. "Give me the opportunity to at least make somebody think about something before they come in my house on me." The city of Chicago had perhaps the toughest restrictions in the nation on applications for a handgun and had denied MacDonald of his will.

I personally don't think that allowing Americans to own handguns at home is a bad idea at all. If they ever do run into trouble, then they have the ability to protect themselves. Giving this power to Americans isn't depriving any power from the states. Therefore, states should allow Americans weapon ownership. Any thoughts?