L.A. Times Editorial Misses Mark on “Gun Show Loophole”

Whilst it is an editorial, and thus not subject to the same level or unbiased reporting, the commentary in a recent Los Angeles Times editorial shows more than just lack of two sides. It slants facts in order to make an opinion. First with this statement:

“Gun shows are thought to be a key supplier of guns used in crimes, though how big a role they play is the subject of heated debate.”

If you are going to make such a bold statement, which basically sounds like you are quoting facts, shouldn’t you at least state by where this information comes from? Who besides some overreacting mayors actually believes gun shows are a “key supplier” in guns in crimes? Also, I’d like to nitpick and point out that gun shows can’t be a key supplier, as a supplier would be an individual or individuals. Illegal drugs are supplied by drug dealers, so how would a show be a supplier?

This also isn’t fair to vast majority of gun show attendees, who do follow the rules. The second, and more important point is that made in the follow-up statement:

“Any criminal can go to a gun show in most states and buy an armful of used firearms, including semiautomatic assault weapons, knowing they’re untraceable and that no one will check his conviction record.”

This is wrong on multiple levels. First, why does the media not address that if a convicted felon goes to the show and so much as touches a firearm, he or she is breaking the law? Second, what about the vast majority of law abiding citizens who go to gun shows? Should all of us be punished because criminals might go there? That is like suggesting that all bars be closed because an alcoholic might go into one and kill someone by driving drunk.

But the bigger point is that is made by the statement that “no one will check his conviction record.” At many guns background checks are done. Many dealers will only sell to those with federal firearms licenses.

Finally, as for the statement that eh guns are untraceable, this is silly because it isn’t clearly not true. All guns that are sold in the United States, at least those made after 1896, are required to have a serial number. Thus the gun is still traceable! Why these facts are not reported, whether in an editorial or a news feature, is just bad reporting.