ON THE ISSUES: Concealed weapons
Copyright ? 2000 Nando Media
Copyright ? 2000 Associated Press

From Time to Time: Nando’s in-depth look at the 20th century

(January 30, 2000 6:49 p.m. EST http://www.nandotimes.com) – The presidential candidates’ positions on whether law-abiding citizens should be able to carry concealed guns:

DEMOCRATS:

Bill Bradley: “We should take all measures necessary to improve gun safety and reduce gun violence. There may be a few limited circumstances under which some law-abiding citizens, such as former police officers, could be eligible for concealed gun permits. But the carrying of concealed handguns generally increases the likelihood that such weapons will be involved in either crime or accidents. Concealed weapons should be the exception rather than the rule.”

Al Gore: “No. We must not loosen the restrictions on concealed weapons. I believe that, after all the gun violence we have seen, simple common sense dictates that we must have stricter gun-control measures to keep guns out of the wrong hands, without unnecessarily imposing on the rights of law-abiding hunters and homeowners.
REFORM:

Pat Buchanan: No response.
REPUBLICANS:

Gary Bauer: “Yes.”

George W. Bush: “I believe law-abiding citizens who pass rigorous background checks and a firearm proficiency test should be able to protect themselves and their families. This decision is best left to individual states. I believe the federal government should enforce tough laws to keep guns out of the hands of criminals, juveniles and others who should not have them.”

Steve Forbes: “Yes. I am a strong supporter of the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. But those who commit crimes with guns should be swiftly prosecuted and severely punished. ”

Alan Keyes: “Given the proper training and certification in safety and responsibility, yes.”

John McCain: “Yes. I believe that law-abiding citizens should be able to carry concealed guns consistent with state law. The Constitution assures the right to bear arms. We have a duty to protect the rights of law-abiding citizens, while taking the appropriate steps necessary to keep guns out of the hands of criminals, children, and the mentally incompetent and to prosecute those who criminally possess or use a firearm.”