To the editor:

I’ve read with interest that 65 percent of Rhode Islanders support a gun ban (which, make no mistake about it, is what they are proposing, a near total gun ban).

I’d be curious to know if those 65 percent knew that effective May 1843, the Rhode Island State Constitution, Section 22 says: “The right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.” 

One sentence, that’s it, clear as day.

The oath RI elected officials take: “You being by the free vote of the electors of this state of Rhode Island, elected unto the place of do solemnly swear (or, affirm) to be true and faithful unto this state, and to support the Constitution of this state and of the United States; that you will faithfully and impartially discharge all the duties of your aforesaid office to the best of your abilities, according to law: So help you God.” (Or: This affirmation you make and give upon the peril of the penalty of perjury.)

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: “infringement” (noun):

1) The act of infringing: Violation

2) An encroachment or trespass on a right or privilege

Any politician in this state that votes to infringe our right to bear arms is violating his or her oath of office to uphold the Rhode Island Constitution. Period. End of story.

We have a Constitution that is the basis of our laws. If you feel the need to take away our guns, amend it. That’s the way it should be done.

Ken Kossak 

Portsmouth