I borrowed this from a friend...I like it a lot...

[guillaumeb]

10. Thoughts on the 2nd Amendment

Clearly the 2nd Amendment gives to the federal government the authority to regulate firearms. But the Republicans are not debating the Constitution, they are setting a framework for the debate.
Republicans know that fear works. Fear triggers adrenaline which enables the body to react to danger. The thought process is secondary. Republicans have sold Americans on the idea that only by possessing a personal gun can an individual American be protected from the evil Federal government.
That personal gun is a real symbol for many Americans that they are free, even if they are working a minimum wage McJob, living in a rented residence with no real hope of changing their circumstances, they are still free WHITE Americans. I said WHITE because many so-called 2nd Amendment absolutists are not so keen on the idea of armed black folk. (Always have to watch for a slave revolt you know)
You know, the same evil government that built the sewer system, the airports, the court system, social security, interstate highways, monitors the food and water supply. All those things that we all benefit from.
Until we can find a way to reframe the debate the gun issue will remain as it is. In my opinion.