Granted, the “character” and “habitual drunkard” points are a bit subjective, but beyond that, the Sheriff doesn’t “make the decision”, he simply follows the law put in place by the legislature. Allowing Sheriff’s discretion in this matter would also be a violation of §6120, since it would be permitting a county official to regulate the “possession, transfer, or transportation of firearms”.

No one is charging that they feel unsafe around her, if you would take the time to read the debate closely (along with many other posts here), it’s about how to best pursue public relations on the issue without turning off large numbers of the population. No, that doesn’t mean always giving into them, it just means stopping to think about the context of actions and follow through should a PR disaster start to unfold.

One example of turning off people might include your comment which charges many activist gun owners engaged in reasonable and intelligent debate on this site are nothing but morons who deserve to be robbed. That doesn’t do anything to move the argument or issue forward.

I should also mention that Pennsylvania is not shall issue for carry licenses. While I would agree it’s not right for the Sheriff to have pulled it, it’s hardly considered an abuse of power. She ultimately prevailed in getting her license restored, and that’s a good thing. It was presented here as such.

Second, if we have the right to carry for self defense, then do it. Openly, or concealed, makes no difference to me. I see nothing wrong with either method, as long as it’s legal.

It’s a simple question, but the answer is complex. I understand why Ms. Hain carries a gun. What I understand a lot less is why she would want to deal with displaying it openly. It’s something I’d be willing to try to explain if you have an open mind about it, but a lot of people don’t.