A Republican federal prosecutor is at odds with a local Republican committee after expressing support for Democratic Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones, who advocates for a ban on modern semi-automatic firearms.
A judge in Lancaster County, Virginia, has sided with the Virginia Civil Defense League and Gun Owners of America regarding this ban, which was enacted by Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger. A social media update from both the VCDL and GOA indicated that the implementation of this law is currently on hold. During a charged meeting, Frederick County Commonwealth’s Attorney Ross Spicer faced questions about his collaboration with Jones to combine several lawsuits against the ban, all scheduled to be heard in Richmond. He asserted, “This isn’t a dialogue. You’re going to listen to me. You’re going to respect me. You’re not going to interrupt me,” even adding a countdown before stating, “Yeah.”
Following the tense exchange, Spicer began discussing the calls to refrain from enforcing the ban, referencing both the U.S. Constitution and the Virginia Constitution. He stressed the concept of separated powers, explaining, “Our governance structure resembles a divided government, not merely between Republicans and Democrats, but across three branches.” He clarified that Article 1 assigns law-making to the legislature, while Article 2 places the responsibility of enforcement in the hands of the executive branch. Quoting the obligations outlined in the Constitution, he further stated, “I must ensure that the laws are faithfully executed.” He noted, “Does everyone get what that means?”
Spicer emphasized, “When the legislature passes a law, it becomes my duty as part of the executive branch to enforce it. Do I like that law? Well, it doesn’t mention my personal opinion.” He continued expressing his concerns on the necessity of enforcing laws, saying, “The Constitution dictates that they must be properly executed, reflecting the will of the people.” His position, he stated, rests firmly on upholding the law despite personal feelings.
A group of 17 federal prosecutors has also announced their decision to not enforce the so-called “assault weapons” ban, claiming it is unconstitutional, according to a VCDL update from June 23.
Spicer argued, “When a law is put in place… it becomes my responsibility. If someone disagrees, they should approach the courts for a remedy. We don’t just avoid enforcing laws because we dislike them; that’s not how governance operates. Congress makes the laws, and the executive enforces them. If you find that problematic, go through the judicial system.” He stated he often faces backlash from community members, emphasizing his role in supporting both the U.S. and Virginia Constitutions, even when it draws criticism.
Citing Supreme Court rulings, he noted that firearms used for lawful purposes have Second Amendment protections. He highlighted that there are estimates of over 32 million “modern sporting rifles” in circulation, underscoring their common usage. Reflecting on past Supreme Court decisions, Spicer referenced how the term “assault weapon” is often a tactic by gun control advocates to sway public opinion in favor of banning semi-automatic firearms.
