End run: On gun issues, president plays as though his moves are all that matter

President Barack Obama has announced he will push for gun control restrictions by executive order.

Obama, unable to get legislation passed through normal channels -- Congress -- says he is taking it on his own to pursue regulations that would make it harder for individuals to buy guns. He met with the attorney general, Loretta Lynch, on Monday to look for ways his agenda can be accomplished. And he is planning to make a national television appearance this week to get across his message.

The president, who is supposed to operate under the wishes of the people, is instead abusing his power and acting like a dictator who cares little or nothing for the considerations of the majority of Americans, who have declined to elect representatives willing to enact such limitations on gun ownership.

Whatever actions Obama might push through will undoubtedly wind up being challenged in the courts. And even if they survive that crucible, they could be undone by the next chief executive.

The president is trying to make an end run. We believe he is out of bounds.

Published in Editorials on January 5, 2016 12:16 PM