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Texas gunman warned online he was going to shoot up school

140 Comments
By ACACIA CORONADO and JIM VERTUNO

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140 Comments

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Their is no such thing as evil,but their is a psychological dysfunctional called depraved indifferent,like they say if want a gun in Texas,all you need is a fiddle and a band,while Abbott show depraved indifferent by speaking at the NRA convention in Houston

2 ( +11 / -9 )

If you’re 18 years old in Texas, you’re too young to buy a beer.

However in Texas if you’re 18 years old, you are old enough to buy two military style assault rifles on your 18th birthday.

Does that make any sense?

33 ( +36 / -3 )

It needs the unequivocal support of the people to make the necessary changes that will prevent these atrocities.

The gun culture is ingrained from birth.

Firearm and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact Report 2022

https://www.nssf.org/government-relations/impact/

8 ( +14 / -6 )

Gun supporters will make damn sure mass shootings remain a staple of American society.

8 ( +19 / -11 )

Abbott repeatedly talked about mental health struggles among Texas young people and brought up laws in New York, Chicago and California to argue that tougher gun laws don't prevent violence.

People in other countries have mental health issues. But other countries have tough gun laws. And America is the one country that has a disproportionate number of gun massacres.

Go figure, Abbot.

12 ( +19 / -7 )

If this idiot happened to be white it would be a far right, white supremacy issue. Now he's latin there's no mention of his color / heritage. Don't get me wrong, he is a monster for what he did but the hypocrisy is telling.

-7 ( +12 / -19 )

He had legally bought two such rifles just days before.

And yet many US citizens find it difficult to see the problem? Actually I don't believe this. They know what the problem is and also the solution. The death of children and cinema goers is a price they are willing to pay for their "freedom" and love of guns. Until enough of the "gun crowd" lose loved ones, nothing will change.

Thoughts and prayers until the next incident.

13 ( +20 / -7 )

"50% jump in active-shooter incidents from 2020 to 2021: FBI"

and 233 mass shootings in 2022.

Is there anything different in 2021/2022 that causes people to be more angry?

-10 ( +6 / -16 )

Gun supporters will make damn sure mass shootings remain a staple of American society.

No, we want to discuss various ways how to decrease gun shootings without hearing the emotional diatribe of the left screaming about taking away or limiting gun owners rights.

-20 ( +7 / -27 )

If this idiot happened to be white it would be a far right, white supremacy issue. Now he's latin there's no mention of his color / heritage. Don't get me wrong, he is a monster for what he did but the hypocrisy is telling.

Exactly, 100% correct.

-12 ( +9 / -21 )

Texas school shooting suspect's grandfather speaks out

The press ought to leave the grandfather alone for now - he's just lost his wife at the hands of his own grandson, and the grandson went on to do great damage at a school. I'm sure he's not at his most eloquent right now, and it's too soon for messages of hope and forgiveness. Let people grieve.

https://www.yahoo.com/gma/texas-school-shooting-suspects-grandfather-185152965.html

3 ( +5 / -2 )

Should they make psychological evaluation a criteria for having a gun,a person buying a gun ,has some psychological problem to buy a gun ,for no good reason,if asking a person,do he intend to commit murder in the background form ,would weed out people

2 ( +5 / -3 )

Is there anything different in 2021/2022 that causes people to be more angry?

This sounds like the kind of "smart" question Tucker Carlson would spout. What's the conspiracy now?

5 ( +12 / -7 )

TokyoJoe: If this idiot happened to be white it would be a far right, white supremacy issue.

I see you're leaving out the part where he wrote a manifesto and then intentionally shot black people. I think that's probably how the white supremacist angle into the discussion.

You are not a victim.

11 ( +17 / -6 )

The gun lobby have played you like a fiddle. You should be ashamed for being fooled so easily and your country being held hostage by greed over dead children.

11 ( +17 / -6 )

Well 54 billion dollars could have gone a long way towards investing in actual solutions to this problem, dont you think?

"We are gonna take all your guns" is not a realistic solution. Never has been, never will be. thats just politicians speaking, knowing they will never even try that.

-16 ( +6 / -22 )

Guns are necessary because soldiers can come knocking on your doors and people need ways to protect against them.

-15 ( +4 / -19 )

Bass4funk: No, we want to discuss various ways how to decrease gun shootings

Would it be fair to say that you're going to "solve" mental health issues so there will be no more mass killings?

When you do, clear out some space for all the Nobel Prizes you'll win.

Much easier than closing gun loopholes.

11 ( +19 / -8 )

Well 54 billion dollars could have gone a long way towards investing in actual solutions to this problem, dont you think?

I don't. This is an absurd, preposterous claim. There is no connection between helping Ukraine defend itself and this latest shooting.

6 ( +12 / -6 )

The gun lobby have played you like a fiddle. You should be ashamed for being fooled so easily and your country being held hostage by greed over dead children

No one believes that, not a single gun owner, in fact and the bigger question, the left are not even focused on the people that died and like in true fashion, liberals abroad that have zero say and liberals the US that DO have a say or politicizing the issue and going right back to the gun issue and it’s not even up for debate. I’m still waiting to see if any liberal wants to talk about what was wrong with the shooter, why he did what he did and how to make sure people like that never get the chance to do what this thug did.

-16 ( +6 / -22 )

He had legally bought two such rifles just days before, soon after his birthday, authorities said.

The Constitution is an outdated document enshrining landowner rights and the subordination of slaves as some of its main tenets.

Not a Holy Grail of democracy as the right uses it, mainly important as signaling a break from monarchism.

Ironically the Republicans want to create neo feudalism by most of their policies.

8 ( +14 / -6 )

54 billion dollars would have bought a lot of mental health.

Its simply a limited amount of money and what are your priorities in spending it.

One of the guys screaming now about gun control, what did he cause in 2020?

After Steve Kerr’s speech in 2020, the district voted to remove Police from Oakland Schools

Oh, I see. So be quiet.

-12 ( +3 / -15 )

All gun lovers always talk about the second amendment. The US constitution was written in 1789. Probably, it was needed back then. If it is still justified by someone in modern society after 233 years- it means they have not civilized.

13 ( +16 / -3 )

Hmd,he Constitution is foundation of American,most people can only count too two,when their are 26th Amendment

0 ( +3 / -3 )

Would it be fair to say that you're going to "solve" mental health issues so there will be no more mass killings?

I never said or implied that, no need for being off again.

When you do, clear out some space for all the Nobel Prizes you'll win.

That goes both ways.

Much easier than closing gun loopholes.

Just enforce the gun laws on the books, increase police presence, tackle crime aggressively. There’s a lot that can be done as a starter.

-11 ( +5 / -16 )

The gun lobby have played you like a fiddle. You should be ashamed for being fooled so easily and your country being held hostage by greed over dead children

No one believes that, not a single gun owner,

My point exactly. Played like a fiddle.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

I know lots of Mexican,with children,their children play a vital part of their family life,no matter their social status,the pain not only too their immediate family,but too their extended family

0 ( +3 / -3 )

54 billion dollars would have bought a lot of mental health.

Except Republicans have never been for providing healthcare to people. Ever. We heard the same arguments here when it comes to getting formula for babies, and all the Republicans voted against spending money on formula for babies. They don't care about babies and they don't care about the kids in Uvalde or Sandy Hook.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

So when do I expect the Democrat led Congress to pass a 54 billion dollar funding bill for school security/mental health?

no Republican support is needed. Democrats can do this all by themselves.

-12 ( +3 / -15 )

Lots of talk about liberals, mental illness, blaming Biden. It’s as if liberals and mental illness only exist in the US.

The rest of the world is in utter disbelief that this continues to happen only in The US, truly shameful.

27 school shootings in The US so far this year.

10 ( +15 / -5 )

liberals the US that DO have a say or politicizing the issue

Talking about how to reduce mass shootings is not politicizing the issue.

I’m still waiting to see if any liberal wants to talk about what was wrong with the shooter, 

I'll tell you one thing that was wrong with him. He had easy access to the types of weapons that are designed for mass killing. AR-15s are not designed or bought for self-defense or hunting. They are bought by sickos who want to kill lots of people, or by weirdos who fetishize guns.

These things shouldn't be sold to ordinary citizens, only to a "well regulated Militia", as the Constitution states.

10 ( +13 / -3 )

no Republican support is needed. Democrats can do this all by themselves.

Thanks for proving my point. Democrats will have to go it alone, because Republicans don't care.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

The Constitution is an outdated document enshrining landowner rights and the subordination of slaves as some of its main tenets.

So that means then all men aren’t created equal? Why don’t we just shred them and change the policies and ideals, laws and rules in order to appease the left whenever they deem necessary. This is kind of what they’re doing in California and New York and well, they’re not doing to well, at all.

Not a Holy Grail of democracy as the right uses it, mainly important as signaling a break from monarchism.

Thankfully, you’re in the minority.

Ironically the Republicans want to create neo feudalism by most of their policies.

Hardly, we just believe in the basic fundamentals of the Constitution, you don’t bother me, I don’t bother you, you live the way you want and I will do the same, ask any Hollywood or Silicone Valley liberal, they don’t want any amendments to the Constitution.

Democrats will have to go it alone, because Republicans don't care.

Good, let them right up another executive order and go after a lot of their own constituents and further seal their already dwindling parties fate, fine by me.

-13 ( +2 / -15 )

Ok so when Dems don’t do it either, by your definition that’s means they don’t care either.

good job talking yourself right into my actual point.

-9 ( +2 / -11 )

This is not a gun problem it's a people, parent, community, respect, and responsibility problem. The US has allowed lawlessness, disrespect for authority and country, and a complete lack of personal responsibility be the norm. I am not sure why this is so shocking anymore.

-5 ( +6 / -11 )

And I'm sure the narrative coming from the NRA will be "If every kid in that school carried a gun, this would not have happened" and "good people carrying guns can do good things". Yeah, right.

I fear to even consider the possibility of seeing little kids carrying guns just to protect themselves. And these so-called "good people with a gun" were once good too, until they started shooting people.

Even good people have their breaking points and have the probability of going psycho suddenly. Having a gun in their possession just makes it that much easier to wreak havoc and affect numerous lives.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

And as usual, everyone ignored it.

Why are you surprised now ?

4 ( +5 / -1 )

The US has allowed lawlessness, disrespect for authority and country, and a complete lack of personal responsibility be the norm.

Absolutely correct.

-10 ( +3 / -13 )

Ok so when Dems don’t do it either, by your definition that’s means they don’t care either.

Uhh no, Democrats voted to get formula. Republicans didn't.

Democrats voted to provide people with healthcare (ACA). Republicans voted to take it away from them. Multiple times.

Both sides aren't the same here. One side is taking care of kids. The other isn't.

8 ( +12 / -4 )

Just enforce the gun laws on the books, increase police presence, tackle crime aggressively. 

Please explain these statistics. Countries with the greatest number of school shootings since 2009:

USA 288

Mexico 8

South Africa 6

India 5

Pakistan 4

Nigeria 4

Afghanistan 3

France 2

Canada 2

Brazil 2

12 ( +14 / -2 )

Uhh no, Democrats voted to get formula. Republicans didn't. 

Their President was responsible for us not having it so they should.

Democrats voted to provide people with healthcare (ACA).

And millions now more than ever can’t afford it, but we have $40 trillion to give to Ukraine? You know how much baby formula that buys?

Republicans voted to take it away from them. Multiple times. 

Why should the Republicans take away healthcare from 80% of the nation that enjoys their employee healthcare? That’s suicidal.

Both sides aren't the same here.

Very true

One side is taking care of kids.

That’s why the people seem to be voting heavily for Republicans, they believe in the rule of law

The other isn't.

California, Chicago, New York, Baltimore, Detroit…yup, the other isn’t.

-14 ( +2 / -16 )

Texas has just chosen a pro NRA Democrat to represent them in Congress by the way.

so the will of Democrat voters also proves my point that it’s not just Republicans.

-13 ( +1 / -14 )

we just believe in the basic fundamentals of the Constitution

Here's the text of the 2nd Amendment:

*A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.*

Why is militia mentioned in the document? And why is it usually omitted when American gun manufacturers, gun lobbyists, and gun fetishists cite the 2nd?

None of them actually respect the Constitution.

10 ( +14 / -4 )

These discussions are a waste of time and energy.

Nothing is going to change.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

Thanks for proving my point. Democrats will have to go it alone, because Republicans don't care.

Cool beans! So what kind of change have they made since taking the Oval Office and Congress with mass shootings continuing to happen? How has the U.S. improved? Less mean tweets? Wow!

-7 ( +1 / -8 )

This is not a gun problem

The problem is that some people actually believes this.

A young person gets guns as soon as he's able and shoots people and it's not a gun problem.

If access to guns is limited the chances and incidents of shootings will go down.

15 ( +17 / -2 )

Here's the text of the 2nd Amendment:

well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

Ok and?

Why is militia mentioned in the document? And why is it usually omitted when American gun manufacturers, gun lobbyists, and gun fetishists cite the 2nd?

I see.

None of them actually respect the Constitution.

Yeah, nice try, seriously

-15 ( +1 / -16 )

Addressing mental health could help, might as well do that if gun access can't be restricted.

This obsession with having guns is the first mental issue that need to be addressed

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Unfortunately, Americans have had enough time to change their gun laws, but they have no intention of doing it. I’m sure everyone will be at the gun convention and will have forgotten about it by then. The Governor who is apparently upset about the shooting will be the main speaker.

14 ( +15 / -1 )

Unfortunately, Americans have had enough time to change their gun laws, but they have no intention of doing it. I’m sure everyone will be at the gun convention and will have forgotten about it by then. The Governor who is apparently upset about the shooting will be the main speaker.

I think the bigger issue is the mental issue, now that we are learning more about the shooter in the mental disparities that he was suffering from, him shooting his grandmother in the face, no normal kid does this, he was a loner, he didn’t have any friends or very few, he was pretty much abandoned by his parents and also another question is why is this happening to mostly men and not women, there are a lot of things that should be addressed that the other side of the political aisle will not talk about. And I will say this again, if the left will not take into consideration other important factors as to what drove this kid to do what he did and just keep the focus on guns, there just won’t be any discussions.

-13 ( +2 / -15 )

If you support the current gun laws and own guns, you pulled the trigger on these kids yourself and are just as responsible for their deaths (teachers too, of course) as the man who committed the physical act. You have their blood on your hands. The nutters can scream and cry about how guns aren't the problem, but they absolutely are, which is why you read about slaughter after slaughter in the US and nowhere else. There is no need to own 21 guns, let alone one, but it is a point of pride for many to own weapons whose SOLE purpose is to kill, and the same people in most cases even want LESS gun laws in place. Politicians in Texas want open-carry laws and less strict registration, well, this is on their hands too.

You can bet that if it happens to the family of some of these murderers in the GOP or the families of the nutters, they will be very quick to want more laws against assault weapons. There's a reason why the fools in the NRA won't allow weapons at their meetings, which are often about arming teachers in schools.

I ask again, all of you who love guns so much and say they are not a problem, line up in circles nationwide, with your guns, and draw on each other. Let the rest of the nation live in peace and without a fear of guns.

11 ( +14 / -3 )

No, we want to discuss various ways how to decrease gun shootings without hearing the emotional diatribe of the left screaming about taking away or limiting gun owners rights.

It is a mental health issue, it is a sickness a disease the total inability to see the facts, the reality, the evidence right infront of one's own nose!

This is the USA, the NRA and those that support guns and what is wrong with them.

A quick look at the world and the per capita deaths by guns, murder rates and mass shootings and the USA tops the list and those like Japan without guns are the lowest it is so simple to see a 1st grade elementary school student could understand but not American gun lovers.

The infection, disease of loving their guns and the mental issues of not seeing reality and facts also causes problems for others like Canada where 90% of all illegal guns are from the USA and were bought "Legal" there.

When Republicans, the NRA and gun supporters say it is a mental health issue, they are right and they need to look in a mirror to see it!

6 ( +9 / -3 )

bass4funkToday  08:51 am JST

I think the bigger issue is the mental issue...

Yes, it's so blindingly obvious to everyone else that these killers wouldn't be able to kill so many innocents if the US gun laws were stricter that the pro-gun lobby must have some serious mental issues.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

I ask again, all of you who love guns so much and say they are not a problem, line up in circles nationwide, with your guns, and draw on each other. Let the rest of the nation live in peace and without a fear of guns.

100% agree. That would be a wonderful outcome - the lot of them, please.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

bass4funk

Today 08:51 am JST

Unfortunately, Americans have had enough time to change their gun laws, but they have no intention of doing it. I’m sure everyone will be at the gun convention and will have forgotten about it by then. The Governor who is apparently upset about the shooting will be the main speaker.

> I think the bigger issue is the mental issue,

So are you saying America as a country is more mentally unstable than every other country ( developed) in the world?

Because if these mass shootings the highest number rates ( especially gun related) are all mental health problems then something is fundamentally wrongs with Americans as they seem far more violent and dangerous then other developed country people!

Or is it more simple than that, the USA has the same mental health issues as the rest but a crap load of guns and there lies the problem.

Which one is more plausible?

I and going with the later.

11 ( +13 / -2 )

Amid calls around the U.S. for tighter restrictions on firearms, Abbott repeatedly talked about mental health struggles among Texas young people and brought up laws in New York, Chicago and California to argue that tougher gun laws don't prevent violence.

When supposed stricter assault weapons laws were enacted, crimes with those weapons actually increased.

smithinjapanToday  08:52 am JST

If you support the current gun laws and own guns, you pulled the trigger on these kids yourself and are just as responsible for their deaths (teachers too, of course) as the man who committed the physical act. You have their blood on your hands.

Why? Guns don't jump up by themselves and shoot people.

Anyone support current automobile laws? Then you have blood on your hands for the victims who die each year on the road--a number higher than those who are gun-related homicide victims.

Anyone support bathtub laws? Blood is on your hands for the deaths that occur each year in bathtubs; a number that exceeds the number of victims of mass shootings.

I ask again, all of you who love guns so much and say they are not a problem, line up in circles nationwide, with your guns, and draw on each other.

Your solution against this gun violence is . . .gun violence?

As can be seen, mental illness is the real issue here.

-11 ( +1 / -12 )

If you support the current gun laws and own guns, you pulled the trigger on these kids yourself and are just as responsible for their deaths (teachers too, of course) as the man who committed the physical act.

No, you did not! The only person that is responsible for the deaths of these kids is the shooter that pulled the trigger. He had a choice and he chose to kill.

You have their blood on your hands.

No, the shooter does….or did.

The nutters can scream and cry about how guns aren't the problem, but they absolutely are,

They are not the problem because the majority of Americans don’t kill people. I’m a gun owner and never had the urge or feeling to kill someone, but I’m not a mentally disturbed person.

which is why you read about slaughter after slaughter in the US and nowhere else. There is no need to own 21 guns,

According to whom? With all due respect who are you to tell someone what they can or cannot own? I own whatever I want as an American and I don’t need the government or anyone else to tell me I can’t just because they don’t like it.

let alone one, but it is a point of pride for many to own weapons whose SOLE purpose is to kill,

Yeah, trying owning a farm without a gun and with livestock and tell me how that will work out for you.

and the same people in most cases even want LESS gun laws in place. Politicians in Texas want open-carry laws and less strict registration, well, this is on their hands too. 

No, because the majority of open-carry gun owners don’t go around killing people, if they did, millions would be on death row.

You can bet that if it happens to the family of some of these murderers in the GOP or the families of the nutters, they will be very quick to want more laws against assault weapons.

There are a lot of people in the NRA that have lost loved ones and they don’t want any change to the gun laws and the NRA doesn’t wield the power it once had, so again, it’s not the gun lobbyists that are the problem.

There's a reason why the fools in the NRA won't allow weapons at their meetings, which are often about arming teachers in schools. 

Yes, because you a lot of people that echo the same antipathy about gun owners and supporters and would love nothing more than to take out law-abiding gun owners. The same with people trying to gun or blow up abortion clinics. So yes, it doesn’t make perfect sense not to allow guns in.

I ask again, all of you who love guns so much and say they are not a problem, line up in circles nationwide, with your guns, and draw on each other. Let the rest of the nation live in peace and without a fear of guns.

Ok, now we have the emotional output again. And as usual, this is why we can never get anywhere on the issue.

-17 ( +1 / -18 )

@Bass

Your bright idea on the other thread was that all troubled schools should have an armed officer. Then we learn in this article that besides an on site officer, two other police engaged with the shooter leading up to the massacre. Care to update your amazing solution a bit?

11 ( +14 / -3 )

bass4funk: "No, you did not! The only person that is responsible for the deaths of these kids is the shooter that pulled the trigger. He had a choice and he chose to kill."

Wrong. If you espouse gun culture and push for less regulation you are complicit in these killings. Period.

"And as usual, this is why we can never get anywhere on the issue."

Because the aforementioned people, yes, complicit in the killings, refuse to see that they are in fact just as guilty as the shooter, because doing so would mean they admit they are a part of the problem. So it is must easier to just blame it on mental health (and not allowing stricter background checks, including for mental health) or other such deflection, but once again, mental health is a world-wide issue -- but world-wide we don't read about these slaughters DAILY. In the US, you do. Now... what is thew one difference -- your addiction and desire for more guns.

"No, because the majority of open-carry gun owners don’t go around killing people"

You see? You can't help yourself! Most gun deaths in the US are not mass killings, and in many cases are the result of simple and minor confrontations, and then someone pulls a gun. If they didn't have it, there wouldn't be the deaths, despite people like you saying that as long as someone had the will they could carry out similar atrocities with a toaster oven or a water noodle. The guns are the problem, and you know it. Look at how many posts you have to put up to try and assuage your guilty feelings.

"They are not the problem because the majority of Americans don’t kill people"

And there you go again. So, again, tell us... why more than 30,000 gun-related deaths a year, not including suicides, and mass killings like this ONLY in the US? You can't and won't even attempt to answer because you KNOW why.

So, once again, those who espouse US gun culture helped pull the trigger here, and denying it only makes you even more complicit in this and tomorrow's mass shooting.

12 ( +14 / -2 )

Yes, it's so blindingly obvious to everyone else that these killers wouldn't be able to kill so many innocents if the US gun laws were stricter that the pro-gun lobby must have some serious mental issues.

We have strict laws, many of them are not being enforced, no one believes the gun lobby crap, but the majority of gun violence happens in the largest urban cities with the highest minority population where you have 1/5 of people living in the streets, homeless, gangs. People died, to make the stupid argument about gun control is just a ruse. This kid lived an isolated life, mother was a drug user, the kid felt was abandoned, didn’t have any relations with his father, loner. Played Minecraft all day, didn’t go to school for a long time, shoots his grandmother in her face, did drugs himself, posted a lot of disturbing things on his social network platform, there are many mental issues with this kid, guns was not the underlying issue. The issue is, what led this kid to do what he did and how to stop future kids like him from doing what he did. He knew full well what his fate was going to be, arrested or wearing a toe tag.

-14 ( +1 / -15 )

mental illness is the real issue here.

I doubt you have ever visited Japan, but mental illness is certainly a big issue in Japan too - with not nearly enough resources to deal with it.

Why aren't Japanese shooting up school yards? Why aren't they seeing multiple death shootings several times a week?

BECAUSE THERE IS STRICT GUN CONTROL.

14 ( +16 / -2 )

@bass4funk

Ok please try giving a logical reply.

If as you say the problem isn't guns, the problem is mental health, the problem is schools need better security ( these are things you have posted here on this issue)

The simple questions:

Why is this only a USA problem?

Please tell us, are Americans more mentally ill?

Please make any reply logical with facts ( feeling are not facts).

We have provided facts, the USA leads the developed world in guns deaths in both Numbers and percentage.

13 ( +15 / -2 )

Do NRA/Trump/Abbot/Tucker people support the idea of arming children so they can defend themselves against mass shooters. Adults can. Why no armed children? Children are people too who have a right to defend themselves.

Why should the Republicans take away healthcare from 80% of the nation that enjoys their employee healthcare?

It would be the right thing since Japan has government healthcare. And you can't use your employee healthcare in Japan anyway

Just enforce the gun laws on the books

They do! Patrick Crusius is under arrest. So is Dylann Roof. They mass murdered and the laws on the books were enforced. What's the problem?

-6 ( +4 / -10 )

Wrong. If you espouse gun culture and push for less regulation you are complicit in these killings. Period. 

Wrong, it wouldn't make a bit of difference, I would advise you to visit a homeless shelter or mental institution and you will see, that these people will do anything to kill and use any device. Guns are not the sole issue.

Because the aforementioned people, yes, complicit in the killings, refuse to see that they are in fact just as guilty as the shooter,

Because we are not and that is beyond rude and insulting, I have absolutely nothing to do with what happened, I sleep well at night because I am a responsible gun owner.

because doing so would mean they admit they are a part of the problem.

No, that is what you think, that is your personal opinion.

So it is must easier to just blame it on mental health

Yes, and not only that but there are other problems like the breakdown of the family unit, more violence and death in minority communities, particularly black and in these neighborhoods where people are killing themselves each and every single day and in mostly blue States with a reduced police force and yet, complete silence. No one on the left is even trying to address the mental or social issues that are destroying these communities, getting rid of guns is not even close to the answer.

(and not allowing stricter background checks,

As if the average gun owner trusts the Federal government! They can't even keep Americans or our borders safe and on top I have to give them my information? Yeah, sure....

including for mental health) or other such deflection, but once again, mental health is a world-wide issue -- but world-wide we don't read about these slaughters DAILY. In the US, you do. Now... what is thew one difference -- your addiction and desire for more guns. 

Ok, so more emotional outbursts and less focus on the more serious problem and that is why did this kid do what he did?

"No, because the majority of open-carry gun owners don’t go around killing people"

You see? You can't help yourself! Most gun deaths in the US are not mass killings, and in many cases are the result of simple and minor confrontations, and then someone pulls a gun. If they didn't have it, there wouldn't be the deaths, despite people like you saying that as long as someone had the will they could carry out similar atrocities with a toaster oven or a water noodle.

Well, you just made my point for me, so maybe if the left would not demonize the police, fund them, back them and allow them to do their jobs without limitations, you would see a drop in gangs, gang shootings, reinstitute "Stop and frisk" and go after probable and suspected violates, do more profiling, focus more on mental help to the most compromised and volatile potential individuals.

The guns are the problem, and you know it.

Guns are not the primary problem, never were, that I do know without a doubt.

Look at how many posts you have to put up to try and assuage your guilty feelings.

I don't feel guilty, why would I? I didn't commit a crime. Strange comment..... 

And there you go again.

Because it's true.

So, again, tell us... why more than 30,000 gun-related deaths a year, not including suicides, and mass killings like this ONLY in the US?

That's also not including shootings by the police, gang-related which is the main cause of gun violence or gang-on gang violence which most Americans are nowhere near.

You can't and won't even attempt to answer because you KNOW why. 

I just did.

So, once again, those who espouse US gun culture helped pull the trigger here,

No one is responsible but the shooter himself and he is going where he needs to be. There is some solace in that, he got what he deserved.

-12 ( +2 / -14 )

KatFish:

What does TRUMP have to do with anything ?!

It just shows you how BENT some are

-10 ( +1 / -11 )

AMERICA! The land of the free and the home of the brave! Indeed... you need to be brave to live in such an amazing country!

5 ( +8 / -3 )

I sleep well at night because I am a responsible gun owner [which I left in the USA]

I see

3 ( +6 / -3 )

It’s sad the only conversation available to me is to dispute the false attack that Democrats care and Republicans don’t.

democrats will do nothing while liberals claim they aren’t part of the problem. There is no other conversation to be had.

Admitting you are part of the problem allows you to contribute to a solution rather than finger pointing.

-10 ( +1 / -11 )

Bass: We have strict laws, many of them are not being enforced

That wouldn't have prevented this shooting so what's your point?

The GOP will continue to vote against common sense measures like loopholes anyway so they obviously aren't interested in changing anything.

And if the GOP thinks the problem is enforcement of laws and mental health, please list legislation they've introduced to combat that, otherwise it's just useless talking points.

4 ( +7 / -3 )

Admitting you are part of the problem allows you to contribute to a solution rather than finger pointing.

What have Republicans done? Nothing. Ever.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

We have strict laws, many of them are not being enforced, no one believes the gun lobby crap, but the majority of gun violence happens in the largest urban cities with the highest minority population

Ah the gun lovers 2 favourite things blaming minorities ( yep white people with issues here) and the propagating of the strict laws not being enforced.

Facts are the gun laws are not the same in the entire country, the facts are that "gun shows" ( basically a flea market for guns) and private sales are exempt from most gun sales rules and laws.

The CBC News has done dozens of investigation after "legally purchased" guns from the USA ended up in Canada in the hands of criminals.

And they all traced back to him shows.

In several cases the "Canadian journalist" asks to buy the gun but no USA ID so he returns with an American and they sell him the guns full knowing the real buyer is not the American.

Is this what you call "strict laws"?

10 ( +12 / -2 )

In fact, when Ted Cruz says (once again) that armed guards are the solution or military type schools, the first thing the reporter should do is ask what legislation he has proposed to that end.

Then wait for the pause.

11 ( +13 / -2 )

SeigiToday  09:46 am JST

AMERICA! The land of the free and the home of the brave! Indeed... you need to be brave to live in such an amazing country!

Amazing how many people want to go and live in the US.

And amazing how the world turns to the US to act as its policeman. The US' violence is certainly appreciated then.

SuperLibToday  09:54 am JST

And if the GOP thinks the problem is enforcement of laws and mental health, please list legislation they've introduced to combat that, otherwise it's just useless talking points.

Maybe because it is not the most pressing, compelling problem after all.

Besides, the Democrats have had over 240 years to introduce legislation to "combat" this; why haven't they?

There have been multiple Democrat mandates throughout the years.

-12 ( +1 / -13 )

The GOP will continue to vote against common sense measures like loopholes anyway so they obviously aren't interested in changing anything.

Yeah, banning guns is not the solution, it's just an emotional volitale reaction that serves no one and offers zero solutions. Maybe locking kids up for two years and keeping them isolated from the outside world didn't exactly help.

And if the GOP thinks the problem is enforcement of laws and mental health, please list legislation they've introduced to combat that,

We did so many times on this site and like with everything else, liberals dismiss it and instead of cleaning up their own States and cracking down on thugs that commit crimes and kill with impunity in their cities, it's easier for them to deflect and go after the inanimate object itself. Funny, when the Dems as they do now and before had majorities they did squat when it comes to gun laws, they hate them (or so they say and want you to think) they will hire people with guns to protect them, but at the same time, they want people outrage and go to the polls and hope that this issue along with abortion will keep them in power, it won't, but it's a longshot. 

otherwise it's just useless talking points.

Oh, I agree with that and in Chicago, there will be another shooting by tomorrow and the leaders will do what? So yes, it's just more talking points.

-13 ( +2 / -15 )

Maybe because it is not the most pressing, compelling problem after all.

I'd say the fact that gun violence is the number one cause of teen deaths make it a pretty "pressing, compelling " problem. Perhaps it's jus that Republicans don't care? Have you ever thought of that?

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Go figure, Abbot.

Last 2 major mass murders, before this one, in the U.S. occurred in 2 highly liberal and very strict gun States of New York and California. In fact, the one in California happened in Sacramento just a mere 2 blocks away from the building where all of the lawmakers that make the strict gun laws are working. As soon as the perpetrators backgrounds were reported, the media packed up and left within 24 hours. The governor of California and DA of L.A. both gave their statements on gun control after the Texas mass killing yesterday. They are both however responsible for catching and releasing criminals in California on a daily basis.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

I sleep well at night because I am a responsible gun owner [which I left in the USA]

I sleep better knowing that my chances of being shot or my loved ones being killed in a mass shootings or by a drive by shootings here in Japan are somewhere between 0% and 0.01% I also don't need to worry about home invasions, my neighbour getting upset and pulling out a gun in anger and opening fire. I don't have to worry that the road rage fool I saw chase down another car yesterday is going to pull out a gun and start shooting in anger as the other driver wouldn't open their door or get out.

Last night was a nice cool evening, I left the widows open.

How nice it is to live in a civilized place.

7 ( +11 / -4 )

What have Republicans done? Nothing. Ever.

They didn't defund the police

They suggested that a peace officer should be present in every troubled public school

They did suggest putting scanners and detectors in the school.

Nothing was done because the Democrats objected to everything else.

-14 ( +2 / -16 )

They did suggest putting scanners and detectors in the school.

And who pays for this?

4 ( +7 / -3 )

Gun supporters will make damn sure mass shootings remain a staple of American society.

No, we want to discuss various ways how to decrease gun shootings without hearing the emotional diatribe of the left screaming about taking away or limiting gun owners rights.

So what you’re actually saying then is then is “make damn sure mass shootings remain a staple of American society”!

You can’t have it both ways…

4 ( +7 / -3 )

bass4funkToday  09:22 am JST

People died, to make the stupid argument about gun control is just a ruse. This kid lived an isolated life, mother was a drug user, the kid felt was abandoned, didn’t have any relations with his father, loner. Played Minecraft all day, didn’t go to school for a long time, shoots his grandmother in her face, did drugs himself, posted a lot of disturbing things on his social network platform, there are many mental issues with this kid, guns was not the underlying issue.

No? How many people do you think that teenager, with all the same problems you've mentioned, could have so easily and quickly killed in Japan or the UK?

9 ( +12 / -3 )

I'd say the fact that gun violence is the number one cause of teen deaths make it a pretty "pressing, compelling " problem. Perhaps it's jus that Republicans don't care? Have you ever thought of that?

Ok so according to Pew research the leading cause of death by guns is suicide.

In 2020, 54% of all gun-related deaths in the U.S. were suicides (24,292), while 43% were murders (19,384), according to the CDC. The remaining gun deaths that year were unintentional (535), involved law enforcement (611) or had undetermined circumstances (400).

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-12-31/gun-violence-los-angles-15-year-high

more than 1,400 people who survived shootings in L.A. in 2021 — the second year in a row in which gun violence has increased in the city.

nearly 400 people killed in L.A. this year, whose deaths mark a more than 50% increase in homicides since 2019.

When you have a DA like Gascon that refuses to prosecute severe gun crimes it's no wonder that gun crimes are on the rise and if you are a criminal you feel emboldened, why would you not. Prosecutors in a lot of blue states are refusing to give a lot of these thugs the just sentence they deserve for committing these heinous crimes.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

Never get a straight answer to the question what is unique about American mental health? Why does this only happen in America?

Because the answer is too shameful and undermines all the nonsense arguments.

It’s because of guns.

Mental health problems, minorities and liberals exist in every country in the world.

It’s because of guns.

7 ( +10 / -3 )

Bass: banning guns is not the solution

Closing loopholes, which has been my point, is one step in the right direction. You consistently talk about total bans even though I'm not saying that. The GOP opposes any measures, not just a ban.

liberals dismiss it and instead of cleaning up their own States and cracking down on thugs that commit crimes and kill with impunity in their cities

You've exhausted all of your knowledge about the gun issue so you're doing the usual which is to just rant about liberals.

Have a good night.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

Last 2 major mass murders, before this one, in the U.S. occurred in 2 highly liberal and very strict gun States of New York and California

And the last major gun massacre in Japan was in ........oh wait can't find one.

OK let's just use "massacres" since 1952 there have been 15 mass killings ( defined in Japan a 3 or more victims) these were done with everything from a bomb to fire.

I would list the number From the USA since 1952 but it there have been do many I will just go with 1998 to present and only count gun related.

So in the USA until 2013 a mass shooting was a vague definition or number of victims so on average it was seen as one mass shootings ever 150 to 200 days.

Since 2013 Congress defined mass shootings as more than 3 victims so the USA has on average one ever 64 days.

So since 1952 Japan has had 15 mass killings of all types over 3 people and in the past 10 year the USA has had a minimum of 57 by guns alone.

But hey gun lovers will stick to "mental health not guns" I guess the USA has the most mentally unstable people in the world if we are to believe the gun lobby.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

No? How many people do you think that teenager, with all the same problems you've mentioned, could have so easily and quickly killed in Japan or the UK?

I don't know and I really don't think about that, because I care about my country and want more attention to be given to mental issues, more funding for the police and allowing them to do their jobs, I want more tools given to them to fight crime, I want in these blue states prosecutors that will aggressively go after these thugs, more tools for the FBI to surveil potentially troubled kids that are red flags, studies on why this problem affects more men than women. There is a lot that can be done, attacking the 2nd amendment as Beto O'Rourke did will get you nowhere except unemployed.

-13 ( +1 / -14 )

They didn't defund the police

Neither did Democrats. In fact, Uvalde Texas increased their police budget last year. Yet even then, the police didn't stop the shooter. https://theintercept.com/2022/05/25/texas-uvalde-shooting-school-police/

They did suggest putting scanners and detectors in the school.

Suggest? lol You mean to tell me they didn't even introduce legislation? My point still stands. Talking about doing something isn't actually doing something.

Just today Democrats in California have announced their intentions to expedite enhanced gun control laws.

https://www.gov.ca.gov/2022/05/25/following-texas-elementary-school-shooting-governor-newsom-and-legislative-leaders-to-expedite-gun-reform-legislation/

I'm sure the Republicans will introduce their bills any day now.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

Closing loopholes, which has been my point, is one step in the right direction.

I disagree, but it can be part of the discussion, I think we definitely need to fund and hire more police and increase police presence around these schools.

You consistently talk about total bans even though I'm not saying that. The GOP opposes any measures, not just a ban.

They oppose measures that would give the Dems and easier....loophole to confiscate our guns, in small incremental steps.

You've exhausted all of your knowledge about the gun issue

Barely touched on the subject, I am just waiting for the left to come up with decent measures other than going after guns.

so you're doing the usual which is to just rant about liberals.

And you about conservatives and gun owners.

Have a good night.

-13 ( +0 / -13 )

By the time 2014 rolled around, ALL schools had been retrofitted (and new schools designed with) buzz- in systems, where you could not walk into the school without being buzzed in by the front office. Parents would literally have to give their name, the name of their student, and the reason for their visit. You would sit outside and wait a couple minutes while the administration and staff verified that your student was a real student at the school. Once inside, the only place accessible to any visitor was the front office. There was bulletproof glass and / or heavy locked doors leading to all other areas of the school. All schools were designed this way! It was done intentionally to stop mass shootings. There is no way that in 2022 the shooter had access to a classroom. So how did he get in?

-1 ( +3 / -4 )

but yet video games that you are constantly shooting people is perfectly fine and have no effect on any children playing them for hours on end.

I listen to "gangster" rap and watch the Godfather. You'd be shocked to know I've never killed anyone, sold drugs, or participated in a criminal racket.

Also, people all over the world play violent video games.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

Neither did Democrats.

I wasn't talking about Texas, I was talking about blue states that have the highest inner cities gun crimes and murders.

Suggest? lol You mean to tell me they didn't even introduce legislation?

The Dems did it and they have majorities and why not? I know why because that would be the political death for them if they did. The Dem can shift the blame all they want and I get it, they are desperate, the polls are not in their favor, but given the chance, the left is only going to go so far.

Just today Democrats in California have announced their intentions to expedite enhanced gun control laws.

Won't work. Especially as long as they have Gascon as the DA.

I'm sure the Republicans will introduce their bills any day now.

When it comes to funding mental aid, who knows?

-13 ( +1 / -14 )

I wasn't talking about Texas, I was talking about blue states that have the highest inner cities gun crimes and murders.

Neither was I. You claimed Democrats are defunding the police, and I pointed out how that isn't true.

The Dems did it and they have majorities and why not? I know why because that would be the political death for them if they did. The Dem can shift the blame all they want and I get it, they are desperate, the polls are not in their favor, but given the chance, the left is only going to go so far.

The Dems did what? I don't care about politics here. Passing legislation that protects children, and all people really, shouldn't be about politics. But the gun lovers will always make it about politics.

Won't work. Especially as long as they have Gascon as the DA.

Maybe. Maybe not, but this demonstrates that Democrats are doing more than Republicans are.

When it comes to funding mental aid, who knows?

When have Republicans ever voted in favor of health care, mental or otherwise? I recall John McCain voted against repealing, and look at what Republicans, like Trump et al, said about him.

4 ( +6 / -2 )

bass4funk

Today 10:22 am JST

I'd say the fact that gun violence is the number one cause of teen deaths make it a pretty "pressing, compelling " problem. Perhaps it's jus that Republicans don't care? Have you ever thought of that?

> Ok so according to Pew research the leading cause of death by guns is suicide.

> In 2020, 54% of all gun-related deaths in the U.S. were suicides (24,292), while 43% were murders (19,384), according to the CDC. The remaining gun deaths that year were unintentional (535), involved law enforcement (611) or had undetermined circumstances (400).

The quote you tried diverting attention from states "gun violence is the number one cause of teen deaths" not suicide "VIOLENCE"

So you like stats now.

79% of all homicides in the USA are by guns.

Compared to 32% in Canada, 13% in Australia and 4% in the UK. And the murder rates, the USA is 4.9 per 100K number 4 in the top 10 highest murder rates in the world and 79% of those are gun related. Canada's murder rate is 1.7 and 32% are gun related and Japan's rate is 0.26 and basically in general not even one is gun related.

But nice try at deflection.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

Antiquesaving

Today 09:33 am JST

@bass4funk

Ok please try giving a logical reply

Well I can hear the sound of silence!

9 ( +11 / -2 )

$55 Billion gone to Ukraine. 130,000 schools K-12 within the U.S. That $55 Billion would give about $300,000 to $400,000 per school for added security. Also you could open up tons and tons of jobs for the homeless spread out throughout the country as well as trained veterans who are coming home to a country finding difficulty to find a job. Politicians sure did work quick to throw money at Ukraine which is already being supported by many other countries. How about our country?

-9 ( +2 / -11 )

People who own guns they don’t need are cowards.

Mentally ill cowards kill our children while another set of Republican cowards protect the mentally ill cowards!!!

4 ( +8 / -4 )

40 billion could do a lot towards addressing mental health, crime, employment, and education. If these things were addressed, gun violence would decrease.

What about limiting guns do you think it will lead to a decrease in gun violence?

3 ( +6 / -3 )

You claimed Democrats are defunding the police,

Yes

"But despite voter concern, Democrats continue to be divided over the controversial “defund the police” mantra that has grabbed headlines for the past two years, and it’s beginning to hurt their prospects for the fall elections."

As a result, when voters were asked in the March survey whether they believed Democrats would focus on law enforcement efforts to deal with violent offenders, they were split, with 44 percent believing they would and 43 percent believing they wouldn’t. Independents were even more skeptical, with 36 percent believing and 46 percent not believing." 

In contrast, voters by a 61 percent to 27 percent margin believed that Republicans would stand with law enforcement in their efforts to ensure the safety of our communities and the protection of America’s families and children. 

Not surprisingly, Democrats trail on the handling of the crime and safety issue by 12 points (48 percent favoring Republicans, 36 percent favoring Democrats) and among independents by 13 points (42 percent-29 percent, with 29 percent undecided). The Democratic Party’s silence about threats to safety has left Democrats supporting a policy position that voters find alienating

https://rollcall.com/2022/04/27/defund-the-police-still-haunts-democrats/

The Dems did what? I don't care about politics here. Passing legislation that protects children, and all people really, shouldn't be about politics.

It shouldn't be and yet, the left is talking about guns and leaving everything else out.

But the gun lovers will always make it about politics. 

No, because we didn't bring it up, Biden threw the gauntlet and politicized the issue, and went after conservatives.

Maybe. Maybe not, but this demonstrates that Democrats are doing more than Republicans are. 

Talk and banning guns, yeah, seems like the usual lot. Doesn't help LA, and doesn't help crime in NY so again, why won't their DAs aggressively prosecute criminals?

When have Republicans ever voted in favor of health care, mental or otherwise?

They have on a few occasions, not taxpayer-subsidized, limited, and for 22 million that didn't have it, not to overhaul the entire healthcare system and uproot it when it doesn't have to be and no reason for it.

I recall John McCain voted against repealing, and look at what Republicans, like Trump et al, said about him.

Because that was a personal antipathy issue for McCain and the beef he had with Trump, it was a lousy spiteful move on his part, but looking back in hindsight, he actually saved the GOP from political doom.

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

Mr. Noidall

Today 10:54 am JST

40 billion could do a lot towards addressing mental health, crime, employment, and education. If these things were addressed, gun violence would decrease

Really?

Japan has no gun violence and near zero response in addressing mental health issues, so why doesn't Japan have all the gun violence the USA does?

Oh wait, Japan has strict gun laws!

No need to answer, we got it

9 ( +12 / -3 )

If this idiot happened to be white it would be a far right, white supremacy issue.

Maybe this is another aspect of the mental health issue in the US.

I saw a photo of the idiot and my first reaction was not, OMG he's not white! In fact his 'colour' didn't even register with me. All I saw was a young man who didn't seem particularly happy or affluent.

Maybe if US society as a whole wasn't as hung-up on colour/race as it appears to be, a lot of Americans would be a lot happier and less inclined to kill.

So that means then all men aren’t created equal?

In US society, apparently not.

Why is this only a USA problem?

Please tell us, are Americans more mentally ill?

Whenever this kind of topic pops up, a certain kind of 'patriotic' American invariably take great pride in American exceptionalism, telling us that the US has more loonies/criminals/psychopaths than any other country on the planet. And it's all the fault of Them, the Others; the blacks/white supremacists, the inner-city gangs/rural rednecks, the libtards/repugs. Never Us, We are law-abiding, patriotic citizens who would never fire a gun in anger - unless we were protecting ourselves from The Others.

focus on the more serious problem and that is why did this kid do what he did?

Let's focus on how he did what he did. Easy; he bought himself some guns, legally, and used them to kill little kids and their teachers.

9 ( +9 / -0 )

Bass, sorry but I just don't get it. You're saying you want to talk with the condition that no restrictions will be placed on gun access. You want to preserve 18-year olds buying military weapons online.

And you say you have a solution without GOP legislation to back it up, which makes it seem like just a talking point. And it also makes it seem that you know this and are fine with it.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

I imagine that countries where alcohol is restricted have few DUIs.

I imagine that countries with strict drug laws have fewer drug addicts.

its irrelevant in the end. We KNOW that neither side of the USA politics of this is willing to take away peoples guns and even if they did, it wont happen anyway.

Because if Dems wanted this, they have the power to do it, right now.

They dont do anything and wont.

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

The quote you tried diverting attention from states "gun violence is the number one cause of teen deaths" not suicide "VIOLENCE"

So you like stats now.

79% of all homicides in the USA are by guns.

And there are various reasons for that.

Compared to 32% in Canada, 13% in Australia and 4% in the UK. And the murder rates, the USA is 4.9 per 100K number 4 in the top 10 highest murder rates in the world and 79% of those are gun related. Canada's murder rate is 1.7 and 32% are gun related and Japan's rate is 0.26 and basically in general not even one is gun related.

We have a larger and more complex population, we have 320 plus million people, plus you are not factoring in the social problems that other societies have like stabbings, suicides, beatings, and muggings, all relative to the size of these nations that have their own internal problems, I am not saying we don't have a mental or a gun problem in some aspects, but trying to make it that the rest of the world is a paradise and free from crime is just laughable. it's all relative and I still prefer to live in a country where I know the government in the end will never control my life, that does help keep them in check.

But nice try at deflection.

No deflection and No silence.

-12 ( +1 / -13 )

There are mentally ill people everywhere, but the US is one of the few countries where they can buy arms without any problems.

So mental illness is not a problem, the problem is a few people who think they live in the 18th century, lack courage and try to make it up buying arms they have no need for.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

They dont do anything and wont.

Again, demonstrably false. It is the rightwing gun nuts that get in the way of any sort of meaningful change.

Why is the burden forever on Democrats, when Republicans never do anything?

5 ( +7 / -2 )

sorry but I just don't get it. You're saying you want to talk with the condition that no restrictions will be placed on gun access.

As long as the left points the finger at guns, it makes it an emotional and irrational issue and excludes all other problems that the Democrats seriously overlook.

You want to preserve 18-year olds buying military weapons online. 

Depends.

And you say you have a solution without GOP legislation to back it up,

There are many, I am not a politician, but there are a lot of ideas floating

which makes it seem like just a talking point.

No, it only becomes a talking point if liberals pivot and scream about guns and are unwilling to hear and listen to anything else.

And it also makes it seem that you know this and are fine with it.

I never said, nor implied that.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

As long as the left points the finger at guns, it makes it an emotional and irrational issue and excludes all other problems that the Democrats seriously overlook.

If you thing children getting killed is not an emotional issue, then you need help.

I suggest getting treatment before it's too late!

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Maybe if US society as a whole wasn't as hung-up on colour/race as it appears to be, a lot of Americans would be a lot happier and less inclined to kill.

Don't give me that, Europe is just as hung up about race and as I recall, they are the ones that started the slave trade, please don't go there. We are the largest melting pot in the world and that doesn't mean that we are perfect, but we have come a long way, Doubt Europe will elect a black PM, at least not in the near future. The issue of race comes up with Democrats using the race card constantly for their disastrous policies in cities that affect predominantly people of color who are their primary voting constituents. Democrats can't afford to lose them, without them, there is no Democrat party pure and simple, and because now after 60 years, many minorities are starting to see that the Democrats are toothless and after 60 years of voting religiously for these people, quite a few are leaving and this is where the Southern border plays a huge roll, let in as many people as you can, give them amnesty, entitlements and push them to vote Democrat. So yes, sadly, it is about race.

So that means then all men aren’t created equal?

In US society, apparently not.

telling us that the US has more loonies/criminals/psychopaths than any other country on the planet.

No one said that, not one single person in that context. please don't bloviate.

And it's all the fault of Them, the Others; the blacks/white supremacists, the inner-city gangs/rural rednecks, the libtards/repugs. Never Us, We are law-abiding, patriotic citizens who would never fire a gun in anger - unless we were protecting ourselves from The Others.

It is a combination of these

Let's focus on how he did what he did.

That is correct and what best way to tamp down on future shootings.

Easy; he bought himself some guns, legally, and used them to kill little kids and their teachers.

Ok, that is the emotional rant, but what was the underlying reason. Glad cops don't get that emotional or we would be in real serious trouble.

-11 ( +2 / -13 )

Problem is plain and simple, many people wants to have and keep guns no matter what.

Still there should be no problem with enacting stricter laws to control access

Responsible and rightful owners and to be owners would still be able to acquire and keep guns, will just make it hard for the irresponsible and the crazies to get one

9 ( +12 / -3 )

Again, demonstrably false. It is the rightwing gun nuts that get in the way of any sort of meaningful change. 

No, they just don't trust Democrats, and rightfully so to keep to their word, their track record has been less than.....truthful. Again, all options are on the table minus going after the 2nd amendment and as I said, Beto O'Rourke just made himself unelectable with that stunt he pulled today, he can kiss his gubernatorial aspirations goodbye.

Why is the burden forever on Democrats, when Republicans never do anything?

Because their largest cities have the highest crime rates and their cities have the most stringent guns laws and their states have now defunded a lot of the police force and put more and more restrictions on what the police can do, most the District Attorneys refuse to heavily prosecute crime, so yes, it is indeed on the Democrats overwhelmingly

-9 ( +2 / -11 )

No, they just don't trust Democrats, and rightfully so to keep to their word, their track record has been less than.

Nonsense. Republicans could always pass gun control legislation, yet they don't. It's time for Republicans to be honest; gun rights are more important than the children they claim to care about.

5 ( +7 / -2 )

Gun owners can say all the stuff they want, they can say "protection" the can say "2nd amendment" but in the nearly 3/4 (71%) are men ( if protection one would expect women to need it more) so the issue is their masculinity, the bigger it is syndrome the extension of their other masculinity things.

Taking away their guns is like taking away their you know what and emasculating them!

They need their guns to show how macho they are.

3 ( +6 / -3 )

Well then I guess it’s me who should be thanking you.

Thanks =)

Haha sure

3 ( +3 / -0 )

So the shooter was unemployed so how was even able to buy two weapons?

The NRA said it was magic. In the USA guns just materialize while this never really happens in Japan. I'm wondering if Trump people feel safe in Japan since they are not allowed to have a gun.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Nonsense. Republicans could always pass gun control legislation,

Why?

yet they don't. It's time for Republicans to be honest;

I just went through that and you keep proving my point, you and the other liberals are not even remotely interested in talking about this shooter and or his background, it's all about guns and nothing else and that is what you are hearing from the left media as well, while on the conservative side, they are talking about what made this guy do what he did and what were the key main red flags and how do we stop this. That is the difference. You just keep making my point for me, I'll prove it, want to shock me, how about diving into this kids mind and what would possess him to shoot his own grandmother.

gun rights are more important than the children

Tell that to Lightfoot and Gavin Newsom, they claim they love children, if that is so, then why is the crime rates in cities like Chicago off the charts and why is it climbing in California, why aren't the police allowed to protect the kids that are being killed? Funny how these leaders spend an awful lot of taxpayer money to make sure they are protected, ironic....

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

Whenever drugs are involved, drug addicted mother, things always go bad. The urban streets see this violence everyday, mostly from bad parents and drugs.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

Things are beginning to not make sense. So the shooter was unemployed so how was even able to buy two weapons?

A new AR15 can be bought for under $400 at a gun show even less and if you are not planning on surviving the attack you are planning a credit card purchase is no problem.

Remember this is the USA 2 things are easy to get, credit cards and guns.

9 ( +11 / -2 )

I would advise you to visit a homeless shelter or mental institution and you will see, that these people will do anything to kill and use any device. Guns are not the sole issue.

Sounds like a good argument for at least making it as difficult and regulated to get a gun as it would be to get a driver's license in Japan @bass.

Written and practical tests, inspections etc. There probably would be a lot of people going postal if at 18 you could walk into a Don Quixote in Tokyo and buy a semi automatic.

9 ( +9 / -0 )

Remember this is the USA 2 things are easy to get, credit cards and guns.

No, credit is not easy to get and when it comes to firearms, it depends on the State, reason, and a few things.

-10 ( +1 / -11 )

No, credit is not easy to get and when it comes to firearms, it depends on the State, reason, and a few things.

In Texas you dont need anything just ID, no background checks nothing, they even introduced permitless carry legislation in 2021

4 ( +4 / -0 )

It is obvious that this kind of mass shooting is a social problem, and a relatively recent one at that.

I remember back in my high school days that schools actually had gun clubs and often shooting ranges. Farm boys came to school in their pickups with gun racks full if they were in hunting season. The same kinds of semi automatic weapons were readily available. Yet very few mass shootings. What has changed?

The overall murder/violent crime rate has been dropping steadily for decades, at least until the recent pandemic uptick. So, what accounts for this?

-1 ( +1 / -2 )

bass4funkToday  10:28 am JST

No? How many people do you think that teenager, with all the same problems you've mentioned, could have so easily and quickly killed in Japan or the UK?

I don't know

I wasn't asking if you knew. It's not that hard to take a guess, is it?

and I really don't think about that, because I care about my country 

I think it's because you'd rather not think about all the innocents who have died so you have your hobby and those right-wing GOP hacks you love so much can get their gun lobby kickbacks.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Well, it turned out that the armed guard (the proposed “solution”) stayed outside after his encounter with the shooter. Not much of a solution, was it?

Then the police waited outside for an hour and a half while parents pleaded with them to go in.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

volunteers were seen arriving at the town civic center with Bibles and therapy dogs.

A policy shift from "thoughts and prayers" to "strokes and prayers"?

3 ( +3 / -0 )

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