September 30, 2016.

To the Future President of the United States of America,

I believe that gun control should be enforced in the United States of America. Background checks should be strengthened so that gun purchases are more well monitored, and it is difficult to get one, especially for criminals or the mentally ill. I believe that guns are a weapon, and their danger is heightened when in the wrong hands.

This issue is important because it affects the lives and well-being of approximately 319,000,000 citizens of the U.S. The safety of all of these people is your number one priority. I want all people to live in a safe United States, not just myself. I want to be in a place where no one feels like they are at risk. According to Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, “117,000 Americans are shot every year.” To me, that is 117,000 too many lives. And if you don’t act on gun control, the numbers will just keep growing. If this country has fear and violence written across it, it not only affects all people who live here, but you too. As it’s said in Hamilton: An American Musical, “History has its eyes on you.” As President, history will always be watching you. From what you do, and how you do it, to who you affect. Don’t be the leader who negatively impacts millions of people.

As the president, you can help change the lack of support for gun control. Currently there are many bills being debated in the Senate that have to do with ways to add security for gun purchases. According to an article from USA TODAY in June 2016: “It's become a pattern: Mass shooting incident, followed by gun control proposals and unsuccessful Senate votes.” This pattern needs to stop, and as President, you have the power to change it. I understand that there is a long process for bills to be officially passed into laws, but holding the title of President comes with much influence. Gabrielle Giffords, former house representative of Arizona’s 8th district, survived a gun assassination in 2011. Today she suffers from severe brain damage from result of the attack. At the 2016 Democratic National Convention she said in light of gun control: “Stopping gun violence takes great courage. Fight, fight, fight. The nation’s counting on you.” (Quote from New York Times, July 2016). Courage is what you need to make laws for gun control to be stronger. Help the youths of America, the parents, the families, and all the people who depend on you. As Ms. Giffords said, “The nation’s counting on you.”

Granted, there is the opposing case concerning the United States Constitution and I think it should be discussed because it is important. The amendment reads: “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” I believe that the Constitution should be followed because it was created with the base of America, but I also think that rules can change, just like this country has. If everything stayed the same the way it was on July 4, 1776, the country wouldn’t be the same as it is today. Change is necessary, and in this case it would be for the better.

In a president I need a leader. A proactive person who can turn an issue into a solution. Nelson Mandela once said, “May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.” I think this wise quote very accurately displays what you, as President, should do. Pursue the hopes of a safe country, not the fears of a country riddled with fear. Gun control lies in your hands. Make a change, for the best of America.

Sincerely,

Greta