I am a registered Republican and I vote in every election. I have an MBA from Arizona State University and I am retired from AT&T after a career of 32 years. I have been married for 49 years, have two grown children and three granddaughters with a fourth one due later this month.
Our nation needs leadership to be a catalyst for change on the existing gun laws. We cannot tolerate any more mass shootings. Assault weapons and large capacity magazines must be banned.
I have sent a letter to Sen. John McCain regarding this issue, attaching a clipping from the Dec. 15 New York Times that lists the “Mass Shootings in the U.S.” The shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary ranks as the second highest in the nation. It is of interest to note that the Tucson shooting on Jan. 8, 2011, in which six died including a 9-year-old girl, did not even make the list. I also included a front-page article from the Dec. 19 USA Today dealing in greater detail on the shootings.
We need a serious call to action!
McCain’s background and high visibility in the Senate and the United States makes him the right person to lead the initiative.
I am not against legitimate rational individuals owning a small gun. When I was a teenager I had a single-shot 22 rifle and a 410-gauge shotgun, but I have not had a gun in my home for more than 50 years.
I am here to help — just tell me what I can do to make a difference — as the time is now.
We must change.
• Registered voter Jim Jochim has lived in Ahwatukee Foothills for 17 years.
