Common Sense Gun Reform

Protecting Our Rights. Preserving Our Communities.

America has always thrived by balancing individual freedoms with collective responsibility. That principle applies to our Second Amendment rights as well. I support the right of law-abiding citizens to own firearms—and I also believe we can take reasonable steps to keep our communities safe and prevent tragedies.

As an Independent, I’m not interested in political extremes or soundbites. I’m focused on pragmatic solutions that respect the Constitution while protecting our children, our schools, and our neighborhoods from gun violence.

Here are some common-sense, broadly supported measures I believe we should consider:

Raising the Minimum Age for Certain Firearms

Most Americans agree that there’s no reason an 18-year-old should be able to purchase a semi-automatic rifle before they can legally buy a beer. Research and real-world events have shown that young people, especially those in crisis, are more susceptible to impulsive decisions. Raising the age for certain types of firearm purchases is a reasonable step to keep guns out of the wrong hands.

Limiting High-Capacity Magazines

High-capacity magazines allow shooters to fire dozens of rounds without stopping to reload—putting law enforcement and innocent people at greater risk. Limiting magazine size doesn’t prevent law-abiding citizens from defending themselves, but it can give potential victims and first responders precious seconds that could save lives.

Tackling Gun Trafficking

Illegal gun trafficking fuels crime in cities and small towns alike. We need to crack down on the illegal flow of firearms across state lines by enforcing and strengthening laws that target traffickers and straw purchases.

Promoting Safe Storage

As a parent and a veteran, I know that responsible gun ownership includes secure storage. Too many children have been harmed or killed after accessing unsecured firearms at home. Encouraging or requiring safe storage—especially when minors are present—helps prevent tragedies and keeps firearms out of the hands of criminals and those in crisis.

Supporting Background Checks

Most Americans, including most gun owners, support universal background checks. Closing loopholes for private sales and gun shows isn’t about punishing lawful gun owners—it’s about making sure those with a history of violence or severe mental illness can’t bypass safeguards.

Implementing Red Flag Laws

Red flag laws give families and law enforcement a tool to intervene when someone shows clear signs they may pose a danger to themselves or others. These laws must be implemented carefully, with due process and oversight, but they have already helped prevent shootings in states that use them.

What I Oppose: I do not support blanket bans that criminalize responsible gun owners or undermine the Second Amendment. I believe we can strengthen public safety without resorting to fear or political posturing.

Bottom Line: The vast majority of gun owners are responsible, law-abiding citizens. Our approach should reflect that—by upholding constitutional rights while embracing practical reforms that protect lives. This isn’t about taking guns away from good people. It’s about keeping weapons away from those who would use them to do harm.