BFA asks Gov. DeWine to appoint pro-2A Senator to JD Vance's seat

As you know, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump recently named Ohio Senator J.D. Vance as his running mate and vice presidential candidate.

If the Trump ticket wins in the November General Election, Vance will vacate his seat in the U.S. Senate, and Gov. Mike DeWine will need to appoint a replacement for the remainer of Vance's six-year term.

On behalf of Ohio's 4 million gun owners, Buckeye Firearms Association has asked DeWine to strongly consider respect for the Second Amendment as a key qualification for this appointment.

Here is the text of the letter BFA delivered to the Governor.

July 29, 2024

The Honorable Mike DeWine
Governor, State of Ohio
Ohio Statehouse
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Dear Governor DeWine:

The nomination of U.S. Senator J.D. Vance as Vice President on the Republican ticket is an exciting and honorable development for the State of Ohio. In the event that he is elected, you will have the opportunity to fill his vacant seat in the U.S. Senate. As you know, this appointment will come at a pivotal point in our history with the Senate so equally divided.

On behalf of Ohio’s 4 million gun owners, we are writing to ask that, upon the election of former President Trump and Senator Vance as President and Vice President of the United States, you select a replacement with a legacy of respect and support for the Second Amendment.

Here in Ohio, you have signed more pro-gun legislation than any governor in Ohio history, from the repeal of the duty to retreat, to permitless carry, to emergency powers legislation, to school carry, and more. Ohioans have seen great strides in the realization of their Constitutional rights under your leadership.

From a national perspective, the situation is much less favorable. Gun owners, federal firearms license holders, and firearm businesses have faced relentless political and legal attacks. And federal agencies, most especially the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, have repeatedly overstepped their authority.

Ohioans need strong representation in Washington D.C. to fight these infringements. In addition, future federal court appointments are sure to have an impact on the interpretation of current laws involving firearms, further magnifying the importance of this potential appointment.

Thank you for your consideration of our request, and your legacy on firearms-related legislation.

Respectfully,
Rob Sexton
Legislative Affairs Director
Buckeye Firearms Association

Dean Rieck is Executive Director of Buckeye Firearms Association, a former competitive shooter, NRA Patron Member, former #1 NRA Recruiter, and host of the Keep and Bear Radio podcast.