The recent video titled “Counties Go ‘Constitutional’: Join Growing Move to Protect 2nd Amendment” features Roman Balmakov, the host from The Epoch Times. This piece explores how counties across the U.S. are pushing back against federal and state attempts to impose greater gun control by declaring themselves constitutional sanctuaries. This notable pivot towards defending constitutional rights is highlighted by figures such as Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers and lawmaker Ginger Schroeder, who argue for local power against encroachments. Let’s take a deeper look at this significant movement gaining traction across the nation and dissect some of the standout points.
Constitutional Sanctuaries on the Rise
The video discusses the ongoing tension in the U.S. between expanding federal gun regulations and the emerging local pushback through Second Amendment sanctuaries. Sheriff Eric Flowers is one of the sheriffs leading this cause, recently announcing Indian River County, Florida, as a constitutional sanctuary. This local resistance is part of a larger movement with roughly 70% of U.S. counties adopting sanctuary resolutions. These counties pledge not to enforce any laws that infringe upon the rights of law-abiding citizens as affirmed by the U.S. Constitution. This shift is a counter to trends seen in liberal states like California and parts of New York, where stricter gun controls are more prevalent.
The message resonates with many conservative counties, such as Ottawa County in Michigan and Cattaraugus County in New York, which have taken similar positions to safeguard their citizens’ constitutional rights.
Bold Commitments to Constitutional Rights
Sheriff Eric Flowers’ declaration that “We Stand by the Constitution. We Stand By The Guiding principles of our forefathers,” is a powerful statement of the commitment in many communities to resist what they perceive as federal overreach. Another significant comment comes from Cattaraugus County lawmaker Ginger Schroder, who vocally criticizes unconstitutional government mandates: “If the state or federal government continue to overstep their bounds and intrude into the lives of our citizens with unconstitutional mandates, our legislature will step up and challenge that.” These statements underscore a strong dedication to local governance and individual rights, electrifying the base seeking to uphold the Second Amendment.
Impressive Local Defiance
The most striking element of the video is the sheer determination of the local lawmakers and sheriffs to protect constitutional rights against perceived overreach. The unified voice from Utah’s sheriffs stands out:
“As your elected sheriffs, we individually and collectively pledge to do everything within our power to steadfastly protect the Second Amendment and all other individual rights guaranteed by the Constitution.”
This statement from three years ago encapsulates their commitment to their constituents and their willingness to prioritize constitutional rights over compliance with laws they believe infringe upon those rights.
The Call for a Wider Audience
The rise of the Second Amendment sanctuary movement reflects a significant national shift in how local communities can assert their rights in the face of federal pressures. With fervent voices like Sheriff Flowers and lawmaker Schroeder driving home the message, the movement is worth watching, regardless of individual stance on the issue. Conservative viewers, particularly, may find much to appreciate in the defiance and emphasis on constitutional liberties.
