Well Bigbob I'm not sure I totally agree with that statement. Seems to me a lot of so-called conservative states like to dictate rules on abortion rights, school choice, they seem to favor religious candidates that get elected because their preacher tells his sheep to vote for them and in many conservative states the religious faction out numbers the non-religious faction, and in general seem to have a LOT more rules in many cases that attempt to tell people what to do. If that's not govt. interference in one's life I don't know what is. I don't have a problem with rules/laws as long as they aren't only favoring just one sides views and wishes.

I was totally surprised when Okie land passed the marijuana bill. It was the urban areas that made it pass because the rural areas were up in arms hollering about reefer madness, sin, gateways to sin, slackers, you name it. All I see is that some people are making a boat load of money right now...:)

I've lived in states that were liberal and conservative and I prefer middle of the road states...limited government, people keeping their nose of out other people's lives, and a minimum of political drama. Know any state like that...:)

I see it as more libertarian conservatism. It's not about old school Republicans. The party is changing.

Sounds like he was no fan of the constitution. I get it, there are some real goobs with guns, but it doesn't matter they have the right.

He was a big fan of the constitution, he didn't want goobs with guns on the street, and I get that. I almost got shot by one the goobs waving his gun around at the range. He didn't need one, he needed training.

The timing of this thread is amusing. Millions of Texans spent most of last week in subzero temperatures without heat, electricity, or runing water. Some people with variable rate providers were billed $9000/key, but ask a bunch of Texans what's wrong with their state............. gun permits.

now that's a good point Bigbob. I hadn't considered a libertarian slant on it. Government and personal viewpoints each have their place. it's when we get so dug in on our individual viewpoints and demand that everyone else adhere to them or agree with them or they will be punished and/or shunned/exiled, voted off the island, etc. that my support breaks down. My take on rules anymore are that they are kinda like suggestions...I consider them if they don't inconvenience me too much...:)

The folks who signed upon these constant changing plans like Griddy constantly bragged about it, recommended it, and pointed out how much money they saved.

I call idiot, if you think you can run this program for $40 each 5 years and spend $27 for background checks, with a mere $13 going to DPS to administer the program,I say he is an economic ignoramus. I’ll bet his one time fee was more than the five year Texas fee. Further, if he is passing those who should pass because Texas wants the fees he is dangerous and stupid.

Put my vote on the side of requiring training!!! My experience with gun sales for Years taught me there's way too many that own guns that shouldn't or at lease own guns that would greatly benefit from professional training.