All Politicians are not the Same - an Interview with Congressman Steve Austria

By Gerard Valentino

Buckeye Firearms Association Chairman Jim Irvine is fond of saying that all politicians are not the same, despite people's belief to the contrary. As proof that not all politicians are the same, Buckeye Firearms Association has set up interviews with pro-gun legislators, and other elected officials who believe strongly in the right to bear arms.

In this installment we cover newly-elected 7th District Congressman Steve Austria. Below are the questions we asked Senator Austria and his answers.

What in your background helped create your support for the individual civil right to bear arms?

Through his years as an elected official, Senator Austria stated he met gun owners from every part of Ohio. He was honored to work on the passage of Ohio's concealed carry law because he learned over the years that gun owners make up the very best of society. As a group, they are honest, law-abiding people who benefit society. Plus, everyone, in Senator Austria's mind, has a right to defend their life.

Do you hunt, and if so, what is your favorite hunting activity?

Although not an avid hunter, Senator Austria expressed that he has hunted and fully supports all Ohioans right to hunt. He stated it is a time honored tradition and a vital part of the fabric of Ohio's culture.

What do you believe is the greatest threat to our longtime gun-rights heritage?

Senator Austria was very candid about his belief that Democratic control of the U.S. Congress and White House is the greatest threat to our gun rights because of President-elect Barack Obama. Only by derailing the expected anti-gun laws likely to be introduced once the new large Democratic control takes over can we protect our guns-rights heritage.

How can grass-roots gun owners best help you defend our gun-related civil rights and heritage?

He stated that by working for and donating to pro-gun groups or helping pro-gun elected officials, grassroots gun owners can help keep our rights intact. Senator Austria was kind enough to single out Buckeye Firearms Association as an example of how a local state-based grassroots group can be a success in working with elected officials and the grassroots gun owner.

Senator Austria pointed out that in his own race gun owners stepped forward to get the information out about his anti-gun opponent. Through that type of activity, gun owners made a huge difference in the race.