I live in Alabama where people assume that because I am older and white that I am a member of the racist GOP "club." Politicians here routinely refer to race using a sort of covert racist "language." I'll give you a couple of examples.

Sen "Little Dick" Shelby always mentions in local speeches that his family once owned 170 slaves in Shelba County. That lets people know that he believes in a social structure in which African-Americans are second-class citizens. Shelby "earmarked" (they just call it "grants" these days) $1.5 million taxpayer dollars to erect a huge statue of Confederate general N.B. Forest (who founded and initially led the KKK) in Selma, Alabama. The statue is a claer affront to the African-Americans who see Selma as a major square on the Civil Rights chessboard. To Shelby, however, it clearly represents something different.

Sen Jeff Sessions has similar codewords. He often refers to "civil rights organizations with old-fashioned values" as major supporters. These are his connections to the KKK (he was once a member) and the Aryan Nation. While Sessions no longer accepts donations directly from these organizations, his web site points you to how to funnel money through these organizations to him.

This is a place where it is socially to be standing in line at the supermarket and have someone refer openly to "that n-word president" if there are no African-Americans in earshot. And if you look at them and ask sternly, "What did yhou just say?", they will abandon their purchases and leave the store.

I'm all for peoples right to own guns, but I'm also for separation of church and state. Seems I'm the only one for the whole constitution.

Yeah you can be proud of this one just keep him in your state that way when he pulls the trigger you can pay to feed him

Chris-749391, I'm glad you are around. Oh, and ROLL TIDE!

I'm a Tennessean black man, and I always feel the hate, most especially at this time. I am educated and a professional, but around here, you have to work harder, must not complain or else they will fire you without any second thought. God bless America.

Great post, Chris-749391 !

The thesis of your thought that ignorant intolerance is alive and well in the United States of America.

Perhaps more prominent than it's ever been.

Being dumb certainly didn't stop all those other pols from going to Congress. Actually, dumb kind of seems to be a requirement for most of them.

That's why you can't feel sorry for Tea-Publicans AH's like Staats if/when they get their asses blown away...

from the story: "get that socialist out of here before it's too late" said one facebooker.

Too late for what, praytell? The Right certainly has accomplished one thing over the past three years, and that is to divide society through its fearmongering. Shameful that they couldn't accomplish anything this country needs.

He is pretty dumb or crazy to even put up a photo like which also means he not smart enough to be in his position.

Master Bob! There is nothing in the Constitution about the separation of church and state! Have you ever even read the Constitution? It is not in there!

Anyone find it odd that Obama has RELAXED more gun laws than Bush, yet republicans still scream "he done comin for our guns, I tell ya! Yeeee haaaaa"

Seriously, I don't know one liberal who has ever wanted to take away guns... hell, they all own guns.

"What? Me? This little ol' thing?"

What a crock, and anyone who believes otherwise is too ignorant to understand.. the others that "Like" him understand just fine, and don't want that boy in their White House..

ARealPatriot -- There is also no reference to God anywhere in the Constitution. It is a completely secular document.

LookingForwardtotheFuture: No, the government or schools did not remove God from us, we the people did, and we continue to do so by not abiding by the Word (Bible). God is personal, starting from individual to each family unit, which then translates to the Church (body of Christ) and what we do (the Church) supposed to influenced the public place (government and schools) but some of us (Christians) are not living a Christlike life. Lastly, why do you think Church attendance decreases in America today? (according to 2010 church growth statistics by Washington times (a conservative Christian magazine) because of the attitude of the so-called church goers. I will not use the word "Christians" for anyone who claim to cling to god and gun. (I am a conservative Christian Pastor, by God's grace, and my God can fight for Himself and will work wonders if we gling to the weapon of our warfare which is not canal (Sword of the Spirit)

LookingForwardtotheFuture Actually the separation between church and state goes a little deeper than that. Try the Divine Right of Kings. God granted the kings their authority over the commoners through an established church. The church was the legitimizing authority for the king. That was why the Church of England was established after Henry VIII was excommunicated by the Catholics. The chain of authority went GOD -> CHURCH -> KING -> commoners. Here in the US we set it up like this GOD -> THE PEOPLE -> GOVERNMENT. That chain gave us, the people, the moral authority to choose our leaders instead of having one chosen by a church for us.

@jke911-1848379 AMEN!

Only a gun hating, far left leaning liberal would construe that post as being a threat to the President. There was absolutely nothing threatening about that post. It was nothing more than an affirmation of our Constitutional right to bear arms. It's a shame that there are still a few holdout States and cities that trample on our 2nd amendment rights.

Handguns have been banned in NYC for 100 years. Does anybody think that ban has worked? Judging by the number of murders and other crimes committed with handguns there, I would say that the ban has only left the law abiding majority defenseless against armed criminals.

Romney says what he thinks potential voters would like him to say. However his true agenda will show (if
elected), that he most probably still holds a grudge against those who persecuted his family.

Romney’s family are Mexican –his father was born in Mexico. Most think that Romney will be a gladiator
of some type who would stop immigration and oppress those of other races. With Ryan (who has a black
sister-in-law/nieces/nephews) by his side- the only ills that would be done is to the Social Security system, etc.

Therefore the bigots/preppers who plan to “take down the grid” if Obama is elected, are going to be in for a great shock if Romney is. Most certainly there will be another Republican initiated war and those who have been “storing up” rifles and other ammunition will/should be drafted. I think this will be poetic justice.

“Preppers” wanted a “fight/war” and Romney will place them in the center of one by drafting them. The soldiers now serving in Afghanistan are extremely fatigued.

Get ready to serve if you elect Romney, preppers!

Only an idiot would actually think a person this much in the public eye would post a real threat to the president on facebook. oh wait.....this is the United States. ok...Only an idiot would post such a thing not thinking the press and everyone who opposed him to begin with would not feign being appalled and act as though they think it's a serious threat. lol

This candidate for a governmental office in the United States said,

"Absolutely not. I'm not one of those that would ever threaten the president. He's probably got enough of his own stuff to worry about without me."

Really??? You posted this picture of a gun on facebook????? We can see now why Tennesse has been smart enough to elect five-term Democratic incumbent U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper in Tennessee's 5th Congressional District.

This is why I continue to say that it shouldn't matter if you are a Democrat or a Republican......WHO will best serve this country. Certainly not this guy!!

RonB, I'm no far left leaning person and I own several weapons.. try again.

Randy, You are not too bright, are you. (no question mark, because it's a statment, not a question).

""black Colt 911""? I'm used to ignorance regarding weapons on the part of the media, but come on. Now you can't tell black from silver? And by the way... a 911 is a sportscar, not a Colt handgun. You probably should have said 1911, but in truth that handgun is probably a 1991 style.

If you're going to spout stuff about weapons, at least get it right, otherwise just call it a handgun. Next thing you know you'll be calling it an Uzi.

I think he's an idiot, also. But he's cagey enough to know how to play up to the majority of people who will elect him to congress. And those people are probably not the brightest bulbs, as well. So his intro will go something like: "Rep. Staats from the state of ignorance and bigotry." --- and I don't mean that as an indictment to the entire state of Tennessee, just the state of mind and heart of those that will elect him.

mguy-478 are you freaking serious? ALL gun laws have been proposed by Democrats! There have been a few rupublicans sign a couple bills, but all have been made my Democrats. Finestein and Shumer haven't seen an anti gun bill they haven't liked. You really need to research some things befoer you make assinine statements.

SactoJD, you're saying that you think the post was a threat to the president? I really hope you are not the brightest bulb in your family tree.

The Beast (666) is upon us, FOX news F=6, O (15th letter) 1+5=6, X (24^th letter) 2+4=6.

If Brad Staats would have done his homework he would have found that the small arms treaty has noting to do with our second amendment rights. If you go to Snoops and type in small arms treaty it clearly explains this. Also, Staats should equally be concerned about Romney. He voted for Brady Bill, assult weapons ban while governor, and he really could care less about guns. I myself like my guns and have several. So don't let the NRA tell you to vote Republican like they always do, because I have more concerns about Romney who's story about gun ownership changes and it turns out he shot at a few varments. Obama/Biden 2012 and lets see Mitts full taxes not just a summary.

And this clown is running for office? Oh please!

RonB,

Are you purposefully being obtuse, or does it come naturally? Is he explicitly saying "I'm gonna get you".. no.

Is he implicitly making a statement and working-up his base.. obviously yes.

He is a total douchebag.....He knew EXACTLY what he was doing...Pandering to his racist base. I see this as a threat to OUR president. The FBI should investigate this pond scum.

Whatever else he is, he's a jackass.

Hey Myguy,

You mean like fast and furious where we gave guns to the Mexican drug cartels and lost track of them...you mean like those relaxed gun laws! If he keeps up with that the country is in great hands! Uh yeah!

SactoJD,

Reading comprehension classes might do wonders for you. Your contradictory response to my original post would indicate that you did in fact believe that Staats' Facebook post was a threat.

Where I clearly stated:

Only a gun hating, far left leaning liberal would construe that post as being a threat to the President.

You replied:

RonB, I'm no far left leaning person and I own several weapons.. try again.

Learn to read or learn to effectively convey your thoughts in writing.

Lola1234 is a shining example of a far left leaning ignorant liberal.

Yo-I've been to Tennessee many times. This guy isn't nearly the biggest a$$hole down there.

Yet another example of the liberal media getting into a hissy fit over a non-story. I have to think even Obama rolled his eyes at this one!

So SactoJD if you are the English major of the group why did you use a capital Y in the word you?

Look at all the free publicity he got. It amazes me that the RWNutJobsthink they are the only ones armed. They will vote romney, why? He is a yellow draft dodger. His sect and daddy arranged for him to go to France instead of Nam. You want this craven coward for Prez. I would rather have any of the 15 blacks in my company. But he is a white boy, is that all he has? He is a total p---k.

RonB,

I'm sure your local community college offers logic and reasoning classes.. or maybe try and look at one of those online colleges; they are pretty inexpensive I hear. Is it a "threat" ? Yes, it's an implied threat designed to work-up his base. You are dancing around the meat of the matter, only making yourself look like an apologist for a guy that is obviously pandering and playing on fear/hatred.

Dano, thanks for pointing out my use of a capital letter.. now do you have anything intelligent to say?

No merely pointing out that it may behoove you to spellcheck before making statements like the one you did. Some might construe that as being well how should I say...lacking in intelligence.

Good day sir!

Here is what Wikipedia says about separation of church and state:

n the United States, the term is an offshoot of the phrase, "wall of separation between church and state," as written in Thomas Jefferson's letter to the Danbury Baptist Association in 1802. The original text reads: "Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should 'make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,' thus building a wall of separation between Church and State." Jefferson reflected his frequent speaking theme that the government is not to interfere with religion.

The meaning is up for interpretation, and has come up in courts a number of times. I think you are egocentric and kind of a stereo type to believe it refers only to a choice of Christian religions. I would argue that Master Bob has as much right to state his interpretation as fact as you do!!

Even though it is a dumb thing to post especially by a person with aspirations of being in Congress, it is his right to post it. How would each of you like all your FB comments or tweets scrutinized, anyone can turn any idea or statement into propaganda only if others are willing to be lead in that belief. I am just thankful that to this date I still live in a country where have a first amendment that allows me to post, or say whatever dumb thing comes to my mind.

If he is one of our government, it is no wonder the country is in such trouble! Anyone with an IQ above a rock would perceive this as a possible threat. Is he a member of the same group that posted targets over the faces of politicians?

'Here is what Wikipedia says about separation of church and state"

You do know where Wikipediea's information comes from dont you?

Kimberly Diane blahblahblah, the first amendment applies to things like allowing morons to identify themselves by several names and calling others names, it does not apply to threatening the POTUS!

mguy-478

When you come back from whatever planet you been on for the last four years, check out the UN gun grab Hillary and Obama agreed to in a round about attempt to take American guns.

Papa Cat

No one threatened Obama, he justs sees the boogy man around every corner. Wonder what he is so quilty of that he fears what will happen when he gets found out?

@ shakingmyhead------he's probably worried some dumb bastard who supports the rethugli-con party will mistake him for george bush.

------------------------------------

When you come back from whatever planet you been on for the last four years, check out the UN gun grab Hillary and Obama agreed to in a round about attempt to take American guns.

Poor shakingmyhead, you cons just can't get it right can you? Four years in office and we have much looser gun laws now. Hum. Yo dimlite, just take a look at the mass shootings since Obama tried to take our guns. Your attempt to rewrite history is a failure. Nice try though. Next.

seeking sanity ..this guy has the backing of Joe the Plumber .. Sarah Palin .and a couple of more really smart Republicans

Colt makes a gun with the model name a "911"? TACKY!

The GOP; Fear is the cause - Hate is the affect...and from that they claim to be Fair and Balanced?

Most in the Tea Party found that an extreme approach does not work - this guy didn't get the memo.

SactoJD,

Again, only a dimwit would come to the conclusion that posting a picture of a handgun, that he is licensed to carry, and commenting,

Welcome to Tennessee Mr. Obama, where we appreciate our 2nd Amendment rights and the Constitution that was wisely given to us by our founding fathers.”

is somehow a threat against the POTUS. Yes, he was pandering to his base. No argument. He was not, however, threatening the POTUS.

If he had posted a picture of his wife in lingerie and stated, "Welcome to Tennessee Mr. Obama, where we enjoy sex with our wives". Would you construe that as an invitation to a dalliance with his wife?

You are an ill-educated halfwit. I would gladly pit my 135 IQ against your questionable intelligence in a contest of logic and reasoning at any time. You have demonstrated quite well in this thread that you are ill equipped to adequately debate this topic.

I voted for Obama. I am not a fan of Romney. Looking at the post objectively, an intelligent and unbiased person can only come to the conclusion that Mr. Staats is proud of his right to bear arms and was expressing it. There was no threat, implied or otherwise, to the POTUS.

To me when I see that it's like he is waving it in the President's face and saying take this from me if you think you can. The only difference is he wouldn't actually do that because the Secret Service would be all over him, so he did the next best thing he could which is to post it on his FB page with hopes of getting the same message across.

In my book that is called intimidation and that's not only wrong it is disrespectful but that's what I expect from many on the right. What is even more shameful is that this is allowed to continue and those who you would expect to speak out about it do nothing.

Hey, it was only a gun. I'm surprised it wasn't a noose. Welcome to Tennessee!

Racism is alive and well in the South.

Sarah Palin puts a cross hair target on some Dem Reps and someone shoots Rep Gifford and others. But wait, she didn't mean for someone to take her literally. This stupid bastard is just as dumb as Palin. She didn't get elected and I hope this moron doesn't either.

It never ceases to amaze me the level of ignorance members of the rethugli-con party are willing to stoop too.

Ask Gabbie Giffords how she feels about slightly off color statements by politicians that may be encouraging to the wingbats out there to use their legally purchased firearms to make a statement.

Conservatives are always threatening Liberals with their NRA protected guns. In reply to a letter I wrote to a local paper here in Florida about the need for better gun control in Florida I had a Radial Christian Right Conservative explain to me that they needed their guns to be armed against us Liberals when we try to violently take over the Government to make America communist. There is just one problem, no make that two, its not Liberals that have the guns, its Conservatives and we Liberal stand for freedom that is what Liberal means . We are not ones trying to take away rights of women or seniors or veterans. So I guess you highly armed macho Christian Right Radical Conservative will be shooting at each other and declaring victory over each other. The GOP has to get some sanity back for their party and move away from the loose noodles who call themselves Tea Party or Christian Right and find some real Republican Conservatives that respect the office of the President and want to put forth good candidates with constructive not destructive plans for this Country. Until then lets all hope and pray that you do not get any office you are just not qualified to fill. Make the boys with their toys pointing guns but meaning it as a sign of ???go home and grow up.

Firefly - Are you serious? Could you stretch this non-issue any further?

I am not a Republican yet I do believe Citizens should be able to own firearms. Hell we should be able to walk down the street with them. When I was a kid. I would see shot guns and rifles on racks. In the windows of pickup trucks. Yet I tend to side with democrats on other topics. Like keeping church and state separate as well. And not having Big brother tell women what they can do with their bodies. With options like abortion.

See we should not have government taking away any Liberties to appeal to the Right or Left. Period. Guns are there and can be used for good. Any object can be used as a weapon. Even in a facebook post.

Read what he wrote under the picture. He did not dare Obama to come see him. Only an idiot would jump to that conclusion without taking the time to read the actual caption on the facebook photo.

Do people really have to see things in statements their own twisted way to make it benefit them or make it "fit" for their agendas?

@Sailcat - That was directed at you. Half if not the solid majority of comments under this article are truly sloppy and biased opinions.

To make my point a little more concise, I get it. Some of you can't stand guns, got it. Some of us (myself included) stand aside the Second Amendment right to carry guns (and some of us, myself included, understand the true reasons behind having a second amendment right).

My point above is this, if the second amendment annoys, aggravates, blinds, frustrates, pisses you off, makes you grind your teeth, or in any way, shape, or form, seethe; then please, you're welcome to head off to another country that enjoys your perspective on a societal level. There are plenty of fascist states in Europe that it is illegal to own a gun.

Soon as it comes down to a modification to the second amendment, you can guarantee there will be a civil war. Those gun owners are going to group together, and those gun owners will take back the country. Not sure if you demo's know that or realize it. And those cops, that "overuse" their authority because they carry a badge and a gun? I doubt the majority will be on your side. Talk about lawless anarchy and a lack of protection!

Think logical - and be a little more realistic.

To make our point a little more consise, we get it. Some of you can't stand Pres Obama, got it. Some of us (myself included) got his back (and some of us, myself included, understand the true reasons behind having a picture of a gun and welcoming our president).

My point above is this, if Pres Obama annoys, aggravates, blinds, frustrates, pisses you off, makes you grind your teeth, or in any way, shape, or form, seethe; then please, you're welcome to head off to another country that enjoys your perspective on a societal level. There are plenty of fascist states in Europe where it is legal to threaten the pres, hmm, maybe not.

"Soon as it comes down to a modification to the second amendment, you can guarantee there will be a civil war. Those gun owners are going to group together, and those gun owners will take back the country."

Really?? And how did that first Civil War work out for you Mr. Tenn??

"Think logical - and be a little more realistic."

That was your best statement, try to doing it.

It seems I offended some of the irrational and inbred members of the right wing lunatic fringe. The point of the photo and the message was to send a straw-man message to the president and to dare him to defy it. If that is too difficult for you to grasp, don't complain to me: go back to school and pay attention this time.

sailcat is a big lefty troll people, pay no attention!

You lost me on the "Fascist states in Europe" Would you give me a clue as I think Europe is a geogrphical group of countries not states. It is not illegal to own a gun, Bowning is made in belgium, walther is made in switzerland , in the Czech Republic you can carry a concealed weapon.

xaziol, the second ammendment doesn't annoy me, but idiots walking around with guns does. They get the idea that bullets only go one way. I believe you should have a double digit IQ before going armed.

Sadly Sailcat, the base that he is pandering to love the type of rhetoric....Never has any other president been threatened, debased, dehumanized as much as this one....And we had some real DOOZIES.....Or has everyone forgotten NIXON....

Hmmm, I prefer people with triple digit IQs to own guns, which is where the average intelligence is around.

Those of you thinking that Obama was "threatened" by this obviously didn't read what Obama's constituent had to say about it did you?

Christ, it's like ignorance has created a giant unicorn made of rainbows in the liberal world. Trust me, for the sake of not having an argument, it exists folks.

@Sail - FYI, I'm independent. I believe in my constitutional rights and I believe in America first. So continue with your terrible rant about how I am a right-wing nut job (I love when you libby's spout off about right wingers, and vice versa on the matter also). Every time that I see a rant consisting of "leftists" or "righties" with any name calling attached; I see ignorance and biased attitudes that have no legitimate claim to know anything at all about politics as a whole.

This is why I fear for America and its future, because no one stops and thinks any more. It's become a selfish nation of hopeless and hapless children.

Teapub? Is that a pub that sells tea? Why must libs ALWAYS resort to name calling?

So says another brilliant urbanite!

Once again, why must libs ALWAYS resort to mane calling?

Yes, The Obama govt has done so well with "Fast and Furious" I'm quite convinced that the UN threaty (no typo) won't possibly be used against the law abiding in exuberant suppression of rights. That Darned Constitution thingy just keeps getting in the way of good govt.

Osiris, please...go try that on someone else! You guys keep screaming "Constitution!" when you've never even read it!

I would venture a guess that if someone didn't read the constitution it was Sheri-78.

Osiris, your info on the Fast and Furious is incorrect. It was started under George Bush's administration.

phantom voter

The Government has no control over criminals and their guns , how do you think they can control Terrorist ?

Why do you care about "Fast & Furious" if guns don't kill people--people kill people?

It was a different program under Bush which was controlled. The one that was all fvcked up was obumbo's.

phantom voter - you need to read the provisions of the treaty. It makes the USA adhere to all provisions of it, several of which are in direct opposition of our Constitution. Every Congressman and Senator I wrote to expressing my objection to signing it agreed with me. Not one said "I agree, but...". And yet this administration went ahead and signed it, and if they are pushed into actually meeting its provisions, then the Constitution is even further shredded by this (lack of) administration.

Me?

USAF Retired
Member NRA
Registered Voter
(and with plenty of family in Tennessee)

Any person that is not white and has been to TN, knows that slavery still very much alive in most of the white people from that state, i was stationed at FT Campbell for 6 years and as a light skin latino I can say from personal experience that racism is very much alive in that state, sadest part is that most people in TN can not even write yet alone read, the mayority are white on well fare and i TRULLY HOPE THEY CUT ALL THE GOVERMENT HAND OUTS SO ALL THE GUN LOVERS ON WELLFARE KILL THEMSELF.

It is sad that most people are voting based on media and party lines instead of what is best for America, same people that want less government want the government to regulate marriages, medical treatment, medical decisions , etc double standards , America is becoming less white like it or not it will be a very mix nation the sooner you admit it the sooner we can move forward and value people for what the positive contributions to a democratic society no based in their colors, I am still on active duty and i will vote for Obama, Mit has not convictions, nor any moral standing, DRAFT DODGER, wants to start a war with IRAN but lacks COJONES to serve his country and so do his SONS ALL HIDE BEHIND THEIR RE LEGION.

Lin Nil

"Osiris, your info on the Fast and Furious is incorrect. It was started under George Bush's administration"

No, it wasn't. Your information is propaganda!

2012GOUSA, Aside from not berig able to construct a proper sentence, or spell your way out of a paper bag, your assumptions about the citizens of Tennessee are ignorant! Then you go on to call Romney a draft dodger. What branch of the service did Obama serve in? How about Bill Clinton? The list goes on, but I won't strain your tiny brain with any more names.

Romney, born March 12, 1947. He was old enough to be drafted, but like Bush, Jr., had the means to avoid it. Barack Obama was born in 1961, the draft was dropped in the early 70's, so he was too young to be drafted. Regardless, one doesn't have to prove themselves by putting on a uniform.

Diverdown1, you are dam right. This guy Mr. Staats is indeed showing his ignorance and disrespect for the President of this country. I hate to say this but if Mr. Staats is elected it would show what kind of electorate his constituents are too.

I don't know why you call him a moron . The President made the statement that he quoted !

Diverdown1....does the presidential @!$%#e you lick out of his ass takes good? Your "patriotism" is inspiring

Somalia is the GOP dream country.

First off, not everyone can carry a gun so stop the lame rhetoric. Secondly, if your responsible why not have a gun available to protect yourself from others who intend harm?

The criminals are already carrying concealed weapons.

John, I have a comprehensive collection of modern guns, starting with the mighty FNP 5-7. I would never even consider carrying one of these weapons in public even though I have a carry permit. POLICE carry guns and inforce the law, not me. People who typically carry are insecure white people who are looking for a reason justifiably use it or criminals. Mr. Staats has clearly threatened the President and shoud be dealt with accordingly. What's up with that cheap-ass gun he's got on his Facebook page?

dl0167 way to sound insecure there. It wasn't a threat but then again you didn't read all of it and it doesn't help that MSNBC likes to slant half the sh!t they post on here as "news" to cause an uproar. Next time learn to read before you look stupid :D.

For a man who has a comprehensive collection of modern weapons, you're making a pretty bold statement about John Browning's most famous firearm by calling it a "cheap-ass gun."

Folks, can we have some common sense here? First off, this man's words are by no means a threat. He says rather clearly that he has had several constituents ask him of his opinion on gun control. The picture of his personal weapon was posted in response to that. If a man posts a picture of his weapon on facebook, that's no different than posting a picture of your car. You bought it, you use it, you're proud of it, and you can kill somebody with it if you're particularly careless, neglectful, or stupid.

Following his statement of his opinion, he points out that many people in Tennessee are proud of the second ammendment and support it. This is true. Tennessee is a shall-issue state, and many residents here take the oppurtunity to attain and utilize a concealed carry permit.

After he establishes this fact, he states, "Welcome to Tennessee." This is the only potentially threatening aspect of the post, which, like many other statements, can be taken out of context. However, given the context of the post, I'd venture to say it's pretty obvious that this means exactly what he posted above. Welcome to Tennessee, where we believe in the right to bear arms. It's simply a statement of fact, albeit a cynical one that implies the President's lack of this knowledge. But hey, this country protects freedom of speech and opinion, so what the hell.

On to the part that really grinds my gears, though. Many have posted here claiming that Tennessee is a racist state, Tennessee is a hotbed of radical right wing extremism, Tennessee is dumb white trash, and that this man's actions is representative of those qualities listed above. I find this rather offensive, and moreover, it's hypocritical to an unfounded degree.

Racism is simply another form of stereotyping. "One man has these qualities, therefore all men that share (this attribute) are this way." Well, tell me how classifying an entire state by the perceived recklessness and ignorance of a single man is any different. Please, enlighten me as to how you can categorically condemn every individual in the sovereign state of Tennessee by the actions of one Congressional candidate.

Moreover, for those of you who have pointed out that Tennessee is full of backwards, chaw spitting, gun-slinging, black-hatin' rednecks, you can go straight to hell. I have been all over this country, and I have seen far more racism, far more bigotry, and far more stupidity in other parts of this glorious country than I ever could have conceived possible in Tennessee. The treatment, for example, of hispanics and Armeniens in Los Angeles was absolutely absurd. While people rarely said it to their face, these Americans quickly became "spics," "beaners," and "Armos" as soon as their backs were turned. This doesn't make every person in Los Angeles racist, of course. In fact, the vast majority, and I emphasize vast, are probably very tolerant people. Regardless, these events occurred.

Similar events occur everywhere, including Tennessee, but this state is no worse than anywhere else. To judge the residents of this state by their location of birth is absolutely assenine, and I stand against it. Frankly, it's people like that that make me regret having served this nation at times.

As for me? I'm a Tennessean, and I'd say I'm far from a backwoods hick. I graduate college in May, I served five years in the United States Marine Corps, seven months in Iraq. I'm a certified electrician, and I have a family that I provide for. Yet according to some of these "people" the very fact that I'm a conservative Tennessee gunowner precludes that I have three teeth, pluck a banjo, and shoot at the guv'ment whenever they come around these here parts.

I'm all for debate on the issue at hand, but how 'bout we leave my state, and by virtue of some of these statements, her residents out of it? I'd really appreciate that.

Thanks.

BBL0278, exellent post!

BBL0278...awesome you took the time to educate some folks in here...nobody could have done it better.

Thank you for your service to our country; even when many of us myself included throws trantums about the way its going politically speaking, still it is the best worst country out there in this word, worth fighting for. I am 48 and couldn't be considered to serve anywhere but would no doubt for a minite in defending this land if it comes to that from ANY enemy, foreign or domestic. It is sad that we have to acknowledge we have potential domestic enemies here..

Back to the post at hand; liberals will do what they usually do; may God bless them for being available for us to have a brawl with them and may God bless ole USA.

Well , those good old boys in Kentucky , would disagree with you . With 100,000/rounds per person , they need more guns .

Right to bear arms is just an admission that its bad to bet your life on the govt being able to protect you at all times.

Finally, a voice of semi-reason! Yes, we have outdated gun laws that need to be repealed. We also have very good gun laws that are so laxly enforced as to be not existant.

Unfortunately, it seems that far to many libs would rather compound the problem through restrictions on the law abiding while screaming about the rights of criminals.

The last resort of a free people, when the ballot and the courts have failed to protect their rights. Pray it never comes to it.

Not once has anyone threatened to take away your guns. Not that you would actually look up such a thing anyway. This is just another excuse to make yourselves feel important by rallying around a cause that doesn't exist.

Sheri.......... you really need to do some reading yourself before you spout off. There have been MANY gun grab laws put forth by liberals that were voted down. YOU can look it up if YOU are interested so don't tell me to do it for you.

"Dog Whistle"....hehehe. Love it. And, right on que, Knee Jerk Inc. engages in a contest to see how many times they can use the semi-word 'lib' while they run around in circles waving their arms like Sponge Bob.

peanutGalleryTheater - you missed the actual purpose of the 2nd Amendment. The 2nd Amendment was put into place to let the people in Washington know that they are not the governing body of a bunch of sheep. In any society/government where only the government is armed, then by extension of the logic, the populace is helpless to defend itself from the government should it become an oppressive government -- like the one that we freed ourselves from during the American Revolution.

The fact that its interpretation has been taken to the point that it does provide for individuals to be able to protect themselves and their families is just an added bonus. It is impossible for any police department to dedicate even one officer to each family in a community, much less to each person in it, so self-defense must always be an option. Usually the first time a police officer sees a crime scene is AFTER IT HAS BECOME A CRIME SCENE.

Congress doesn't get social security. They have a different government retirement system, don't they?

I think they do, and that is so thai It will pay out to them. And they need that other system so they can be free to vote to screw the rest of us out of the benefits we paid for.

Or force us to put our retirement money in with Wall Street - which is also basically screwing us out of the benefits we paid for.

But at least then our money will become bonuses for the wall street fatties where it can "trickle down" to us little folks.

Gee! What WAS that I felt trickling down my neck? And who is that guy standing on top of that tall wall street tower? And why is he laughing so hard?

Okay, I have finally come to the conclusion that libs are not able to make their argument without NAME CALLING. Grow up!

no, they were spinning the gun while playing truth or dare.

I guess that's why it's upside down.

finally a rational statement...who cares and why? Just media garbage and what a load

A "terrorist" is not just someone from another country. It is the person crawling thru your window at 3AM (or approaching you in another darkened location) intent on burglary, assault, &/or murder. Time does not allow for a discussion of the perps intentions; only for (hopefully) just enough time to reach for your gun so you can end a crime in progress. The fear of being blown away should and does stop some (but not all) would-be criminals. No law enforcement organization, no matter how wary, can outperform a well-placed bullet.

Gun owners are called right-wing nut cases; but at least they are alive to hear the insults. Whiners without guns are called "dead" or "victim" or both.

elder: "Whiners without guns are called "dead" or "victim" or both."

Yep! Just like that kid shot dead accidentally by his dad the other day. Should have had a gun--then maybe they'd both be dead, huh?

Actually it wasn't accidentally if you're talking about the kid who was out at 1 a.m. in black clothing, carrying a knife and attempting to break into his adopted father's sister's home. That was an intentional, and fully justified shooting. It is heartbreaking that it did turn out to be the shooting of one family member by another - but it was not accidental by any stretch of the imagination. My take on it is that the kid was up to no good, the father was out to protect his sister, and when the kid came at him with the knife he did what he needed to do to protect his own life.

Maxwell

Perhaps if someone hit you over your head with your silver hammer it would drive some sense into your empty head.

The US govt. is no friend to its citizens and the constitution has been trampled since they started taking land from Native Americans. I think its funny how liberal's love to think the democrats have their best interests at heart. Explain to me why the dems voted to rob social security?

Franklin Roosevelt, a Democrat, introduced the Social Security (FICA) program. In 1968, Lyndon Johnson and the Democratic-controlled House and Senate paved the way for the Social Security "Trust Fund" to be placed in the general fund where, for many years thereafter, Democrats spent billions from it on everything but Social Security. Another Congress, both houses controlled by Democrats, then eliminated the income tax deduction for FICA withholding. A few years later Congress passed a tax of 85 percent on Social Security recipients. Both houses were again controlled by Democrats. Over the years Democrats raised individual contributions to 7.65 percent a percentage matched by employers.Every election cycle, Democrats claim Republicans will slash Social Security benefits if elected.The only "slashing" has been when Democrats controlled both houses of Congress. Dems also voted to tax social security benefits, with Al Gore casting the
‘tie-breaking’ deciding vote as President of the Senate.

Really? Think about when the 2nd Amendment was written. Taxation without representation. Govt. troops billeted in our homes ...... at our expense. The Brits were confiscating weapons from the colonists. When the ballot fails to control the govt, don't expect the courts to do any better.

Think about Waco, Ruby Ridge, Kent State, and Elion Gonzalaz. Can't say the record inspires trust.

I'll keep my guns and religion. You all can keep the change, if there's anything left that is.

If you truly understood your religion, you wouldn't have to hide behind a gun. How many weapons did Jesus pack?

Daniel A. Brown, nice comeback!

Osiris, I truly hope you are just a troll.

Jesus was the ultimate weapon....complete, control, perfect...but as humans we may need our 2nd amendment someday.

Daniel, that is true. I have never seen so many scary "Christians" in all my life. They trust in a gun and not their God. They are only "Christian" in name.

Really? I'm not a religious republican and I don't hide behind a gun, but I do keep them. I'll kick your ass just fine with my fists, but when that isn't enough, I'll put two in your chest and one in your head. Good old fashion ARMY training.

Those who imagine that their owning guns will somehow keep the government in check are sadly deluded. Just take a look at Syria to see how a modern government responds to armed citizens opposing an oppressive government. To be clear, i'm not saying our government is oppressive in any significant way, but if it was, handguns and hunting rifles are irrelevant when fighting against tanks, helicopter gunships, and artillery barrages against civilian neighborhoods. Enjoy your guns for protection against criminals, but don't imagine they have any value as a substitute for informed and responsible voting.

Very well stated Daniel A. Brown. I find that most far right conservatives are very ignorant of the gospel taught by Christ, and those that aren't conveniently ignore it to justify worshiping at their own altar. Far right Christian gospel = Guns, Gold, then God.

Please keep these lunatics TALKING. They are setting the table to lose the Presidency, the House and the Senate!

Actually the highest rates are in DC and that is with very strict gun policy's. They have 35 gun related deaths per 100,000 people a year. There are almost 650,000 people in DC, so they have about 210 gun related deaths per year. Way higher than Tenn. in terms of population.

Michael, nice job blowing smoke. You must be another liberal who hates guns and the truth.

DC and Chicago are prime examples of gun control....failed that is

Michael: You sir, and I use that term loosely, are a jackazz! You throw the term 'Redneck' out there like it's an insult or a crime. Hardly. The opposite is true. People EARN their rednecks from long, hot days working in the sun doing an honest days work. There is nothing wrong with owning guns. We have guns in our home and both my husband and myself have concealed weapons permits. Where do you live? In a high-rise penthouse where you sit and pass judgement on the lowly peasants that dare inhabit this country? You are a pizz-ant punk. As that great and true American, Charleton Heston once said: "From my cold dead hands."

Do you realize how stupid you sound?

another stupid white man!!!

Jay, wow, I guess you think that makes you a big man. You sound like a 13 year old. Oops, that's an insult to 13 year olds because they are smarter than you.

You are so tough Jay you can give the finger online to someone who does not even know it or care. Hey Jay i just gave you the finger and I can get another 1,000 to do it also. Ooooooooooooooooh

You can't threaten the president of the united states, regardless of weather or not you meant it these sorts of things are taken vary seriously, and for good reason.

You are in the running for first place in the stupid comment contest.

James, do you mean very? Obama will gladly have your vote..

Smarter: I think James made an excellent point.....and I will gladly vote for:

Obama/Biden 2012

Peace, at least you can spell.

Keep them in front of a microphone!

It does no good to point out to morons that Obama is more pro gun than Bush. Bush did nothing for gun owners in 8 years. Obama has not only not proposed any legislation restricting guns, he signed the law that allows people with state handgun permits to carry them in national parks. These bozos are too busy drinking Fox Noise Kool Aide to know that.

He sure is Michael. He even had his buddy Holder send a bunch of untrackable guns to Cartels. You bet he loves his guns. You are the idiot

Yeah, Jay. Don't let the truth confuse you. Stay that course. And being called an idiot by you is sorta like being called ugly by a toad.

Oh, you mean the truth that is under executive order to not release all the information concerning F&F? Oh you're good. Typical spin Michael. I'll bet you have many more, right mensa? Hows that for stupid remarks?

Hey Jay, get you head out of your A&&. The true culprits of F&F were shown to be ATF management in Arizona, doing the same thing under Obama as they did under Bush. Either way, that has nothing to do with Catherine's correct comment about folks like you going off sideway thinking President Obama is going to take away your guns. Start paying attention and it may get you somewhere.

Jay has mental problems. He goes off the deep end and starts spewing anger and insults when anyone expresses an opinion, or points out a fact that he doesn't like. You can bet that his blood pressure shoots up through the roof. Just what I expect from the gun wacko crowd. Limited intelligence, and unstable personalities. Pretty typical.

So who in the Umbama Admin. instructed ATF agents to remove the tracers in those guns, Mark? At least the ones Bush had sold had the tracers in them. OK thats right, they were doing the same thing. You are hilarious.

F&F was in faxt a program statered under George W Bush and continued under president Obama until his adminstration saw that there were problem with it. It is interesting that Many on the right have npo prblems with things they they selves supported -when it is done by Mr. Obama -- But as the high-ranking member of the Romney campaidn so pridle said (and I admitting paraphrase it here now)) " We don't let's' facts' dictate our words or actions". I myself would rahter go with the truth and facts (so I don't waste my time watched FOX (not the real) News (AKA GOP TV_)_

Rob: "I, myself, would rather go with the truth and facts"

You are, in fact, wrong. Also, notice I corrected your puctuation and spelling.

Actually, F&F did not start under Bush. The gun running under Bush was called Operation Wide Receiver and it was stopped after it was discovered that some of the guns were lost. The Bush guns had tracking devices. F&F was done SOLELY under the Obama administration. The Obama administration did not stop F&F until someone was killed and it was traced back to them.

Rob: sick is right on all his facts so please if you dont know what your talking about shut up.also please learn to spell becouse your showing low liberal iq

Do you work? You seem to have alot of time to respond to redneck comments. Must bother you alot. Ha ha.

cling to your guns but we will cling to votes and we are more than you.

So would it be a threat if someone were to say that a two bit fascist moron like staats who waves guns around should face a few guns in the next few weeks?

I am a 51 year old white female. If I came to the door of Brad Staats home and he greeted me with a gun, I would pee in my pants. Of course I would feel threatened! Where I come from, we greet people with a "Hello" and a handshake! And you wonder why we want stricter gun laws. Obviously we don't want idiots waving them around. IT WAS /IS A THREAT! He is a bully!