Sangamon Sun

Illinois House Republican lawmakers gathered at the Capitol to express their support for gun owners and the Second Amendment. State Representatives Charlie Meier, Regan Deering, and Patrick Windhorst emphasized the importance of protecting this constitutional right.

Rep. Charlie Meier stated, “Where I come from, Defending the Second Amendment is not just about talking points, it’s about protecting our very way of life.” He criticized Democrats for pushing stricter laws on gun owners while supporting policies that he believes are lenient on crime.

Rep. Regan Deering addressed supporters during Illinois Gun Owner’s Lobby Day (IGOLD), saying, “To the advocates, House Republicans see you, support you, and will tirelessly defend you and your constitutional rights.” She argued that recent legislative efforts by Democrats infringe on constitutional rights under the guise of safety.

State Representative Patrick Windhorst serves as a ranking member on relevant committees. He expressed concerns over legislation passed by Illinois Democrats that he believes undermine citizens' rights to bear arms. Windhorst referenced the US Supreme Court’s 2022 Bruen Decision as a standard Illinois laws fail to meet.

“The people I represent take their responsibility to care for, store, and use their firearms very seriously,” said Windhorst. He pointed out that laws like bans on assault weapons conflict with federal standards and contribute to legal confusion.

The representatives reiterated their commitment to defending Second Amendment rights against what they view as overreach by state legislation.