Why Do Oregon Politicians Expect Law‑Abiding Citizens to Give Up Their Guns?

Why Do Oregon Politicians Expect Law‑Abiding Citizens to Give Up Their Guns?

By Gregg Kielma Tactical K Training and Firearms

8/21/26

I’ve spent years teaching firearms safety, responsibility, and the mindset that comes with carrying a weapon. Because of that, I pay close attention to how lawmakers talk about gun ownership.

In Oregon, it often feels like the conversation starts with the assumption that ordinary, law‑abiding citizens are the problem. Instead of focusing on criminals, repeat offenders, or the failures in the mental‑health and justice systems, many legislators push policies that restrict the rights of people who follow the law, train regularly, and take their responsibilities seriously.

To me, it’s backwards. I believe some Oregon politicians see firearms through a purely ideological lens something dangerous that should be minimized at any cost rather than recognizing the millions of responsible gun owners who carry for personal protection, family safety, or simply because it’s a constitutional right.

When lawmakers treat lawful citizens as if they’re the threat, it creates a culture where responsible people feel pressured to give up their guns while criminals continue ignoring every rule on the books. That’s not public safety; that’s political theater. And it’s exactly why I speak up: because the people who do things the right way shouldn’t be punished for the actions of those who don’t.