When it comes to abolishing the death penalty in Hartford, state Rep. Steve Mikutel, D-Griswold ain’t a swing vote.
Mikutel today gave colleagues a better understanding of his views on capital punishment when he explained during a legislative hearing how his constituents define law-and-order.
Mikutel’s a member of the legislature’s Public Safety and Security Committee. The group today heard testimony on Democratic Gov. Dannel Malloy’s efforts to eliminate a 1998 statute requiring Connecticut maintain at minimum a police force of 1,248 troopers.
Mikutel questioned the need for that figure, but it sounds like his district could use more manpower.
“We don’t rely on the state police for our protection,” Mikutel added. “We rely on the Second Amendment.”
As in the right to bear arms. Get it?
The comment elicited some nervous “is he serious?” chuckles from those in the room, some “it’s just Mikutel being Mikutel” eye rolls and a couple of cheers.
Several minutes later, after Mikutel had left the meeting, Sen. Joan Hartley, D-Waterbury, a committee chairman, referenced his comments when she addressed the head of the state police union.
“I would feel much safer with your troopers watching over us than, with all due respect, Representative Mikutel,” Hartley said.
Well, Joan, I don’t want anyone “watching over” me. Time and time again, case law affirms that law enforcement has no duty to protect the individual. Watching over me is not providing me with any safety and security from those who may wish to do me or my loved ones harm. Troopers roll in AFTER the crime has been committed. The 2nd Amendment and what Rep. Mikutel referenced was the simple idea that the law abiding should have the means and tools to resist violence with lawful force.
Just an FYI – Hartley’s a pretty conservative Democrat. Hardly a liberal.
The liberals don’t have a clue….on any issue.
Why do they get reelected?
Are the voters that stupid?
“I would feel much safer with your troopers watching over us than, with all due respect.
Really now? Sen. Joan Hartley, ever hear the term “When seconds count the police are only minutes way”?
Feel free to debate me…
Thank You Mr.Mikutel for the reasoned speech, you rock.