Metro East Sun

The Second Amendment is popular in Illinois. But not with the Chicago politicians who control state government, who would ban gun ownership statewide if they weren’t prevented from doing it by the U.S. Constitution.

Republican Wood River Township Supervisor Mike Babcock, of Bethalto, is challenging Democrat Dan Beiser for the right to represent northern Madison County’s 111th State House District in the state legislature.

Wood River Township Supervisor Mike Babcock, running for 111th District State House seat | Photo courtesy of Mike Babcock

Babcock is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights. He says gun owners need aggressive defenders in Springfield now more than ever.

The Metro East Sun asked Babcock about gun ownership and its future in Illinois.

MES: The U.S. Supreme Court's Heller decision struck down blanket gun bans, like those in Illinois. What can the legislature do within Heller to impact gun ownership?

MB: It is outrageous that Chicago politicians continue to push policies to curtail our Second Amendment rights.  One day, it’s a tax on ammunition. The next it’s an implementation of a new gun free zone.  We can’t stand idly by and let these laws pass, we must stand up for our rights.

MES: Politicians in the most gun violence-ridden communities—like Chicago and East St. Louis-- are anti-gun ownership. How would you address their issues?

MB: We should be reaching out to these communities and their leaders in an attempt to change their minds.  These anti-gun policies have failed for decades and it’s time for a new approach.

For instance, we need to work to educate people on the fact that all weapons are not assault weapons.  What the media classifies as “assault weapons” are rarely used in violent crimes.

MES: Should guns be banned in schools or public parks?

MB: If someone is a law-abiding citizen with a concealed carry permit there should be no reason why they cannot carry in a school or another public place.  Also, it makes sense for schools to have armed law enforcement on site to protect our kids.

MES: Do you believe Hillary Clinton wants to ban firearms in America?

MB: Yes, I believe that Hillary Clinton’s ultimate goal is to remove firearms from the hands of law-abiding citizens.