Discussion on Gun Control After Recent Tragedy

On Wednesday, Fox’s Kennedy disagreed with his fellow panelist, Harold Ford Jr., regarding the call for tighter gun control laws in the wake of mass shootings in Minneapolis. Kennedy expressed that such measures “are not an answer.”

The incident involved a man recognized by authorities as Robin Westman, who tragically killed two children and injured others at Announcement Catholic School on the same day. During the discussion, Ford Jr. advocated for more regulations on gun buyers.

After Ford’s comments, Fox’s Jesse Watters inquired whether Kennedy supported banning transgender individuals from purchasing firearms. Kennedy responded, “No, I think there are trans people who are scared—worried about their own safety. They have the right to protect themselves, yet they might end up on federal watchlists.” He added that there are numerous legal barriers that hinder responsible individuals from obtaining guns and ammunition.

Kennedy shared that he spoke with a local sporting goods store owner who was upset about the fact that those who need to defend themselves and their families, particularly outdoor enthusiasts, face obstacles in buying weapons without a lengthy registration process. He further noted that while the shooter had mental health issues, this incident should not be attributed solely to his transgender identity. “In Minnesota, we have red flag laws; the shooter’s parents should have been aware and should have acted,” he said.

Westman, who is in his early twenties, changed his name from Robert in 2019 after identifying as female. Reports indicate that Westman opened fire during a Mass at the Announcement Catholic Church, resulting in the tragic deaths of two children, ages 8 and 10.

Calls for stricter gun regulations have amplified from Democrats following this attack. They have urged a response different from just prayers, emphasizing that thoughts and prayers alone don’t prevent school shootings.

Kennedy reiterated that individuals who truly need self-defense shouldn’t face restrictions on firearms. In contrast, Ford Jr. seemed to push for more thorough background checks. “I wish someone had intervened before he could pull the trigger. It’s frustrating. It’s painful to see good people penalized,” Kennedy added, expressing his sorrow over the situation.

Ford Jr. clarified that he wasn’t advocating for confiscating guns outright but rather, promoting deeper scrutiny in these situations. “We need thorough checks. It’s a different conversation when it comes to mental health and its impact,” he clarified.

After the shooting, Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities later discovered unsettling video content linked to him, which included ominous messages and imagery promoting violence and expressing extreme sentiments.