Letter to the Editor 10/15
Editor:
Two stories on the front page of the Sept. 28 edition of The Express caught my eye.
The lead story confirmed Lock Haven City Council’s pledge of support to Lock Haven University when council was asked “to speak out against the monumental changes in the university’s future.”
The second story appeared in the lower left hand corner of the same front page: “Rally brings gun rights advocates to Pa. Capitol.”
76th District State Rep. Stephanie Borowicz is quoted: “Gov. Wolf needs to read the Pennsylvania Constitution again.”
And Rep. Borowicz, a Clinton County Republican, added, “Every right that has been given to us hinges on the 2nd Amendment.”
I have no idea what she means by the last sentence.
There is nothing Rep. Borowicz, as a state legislator, can do about the 2nd Amendment to the United States Constitution, period. In reality, the gun control politicians don’t wish to take away our right to bear arms in defense of self and state. Shouting that they do is but another Republican Party sound bite attempt to remind the faithful followers to vote to re-elect the president.
The Pennsylvania Constitution does affirm gun rights; however, it cannot abolish them.
Federal vs. State. Federal wins. Her concern is misplaced; incendiary, but misplaced.
In a quote most closely associated with Tip O’Neill, former speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives: “All politics are local.”
Politicians must choose their battles wisely. Basically, gun rights are a federal issue. State universities, on the other hand, are local. One might think Rep. Borowicz would be campaigning on issues over which, someday, she might have some control. Gun rights are not it.
They are not going away no matter how she feels or votes; Lock Haven University just might.
We don’t need an article in the local paper reminding us of her position on guns. She does that often.
However, how many of us know her position on LHU: past, present, future?
I care about the future of our university.
My kids care. The community cares.
The university family cares.
Lock Haven City and Clinton County governments care.
Does Rep. Borowicz? I would never consider voting for her without knowing.
Richard Saxton
Mill Hall, PA
