QUESTIONING MANCHIN'S STANCE Citizens Defense League Questions Senator Manchin's Stance On Gun Control
Reported by: Katy Brown
Videographer: Katy Brown
Web Producer: Katy Brown
Reported: Dec. 22, 2012 4:25 PM EST
Updated: Dec. 22, 2012 4:43 PM EST
EYEWITNESS ONLINE WEBCAST VIDEO C L I C K T O P L A Y
Charleston
, Kanawha County
, West Virginia
Ever since the shooting in Newtown, Conn., there has been a renewed debate over guns. Front and center in the debate is US Senator Joe Manchin.
Senator Manchin was one of the first to come out after the Newtown shootings, calling for stricter controls on assault weapons.
Manchin is a lifelong member of the National Rifle Association and an outspoken gun supporter.
But now some are asking what side he's really on.
"We're here just to let them know and let Joe know that you're either on our side or their side," said Mark Nelson, who was protesting, "There's no in between."
The message is loud and clear from the members of the Citizens Defense League that gathered in downtown Charleston.
They held signs reading "Manchin = Obama" and others saying "Criminals love gun control." All in response to what some are calling Manchin's flip flopping stance on guns.
"We believe that Manchin backing off of his stance is probably a very prudent idea politically," said WVCDL President Keith Morgan, "I think as evidence from behind me, he's got a lot to lose from the position he's taking."
Manchin defended his stance earlier this week.
"You know, assault riffles I guess they were designed for the military, multiple round clips," said Manchin, "You know I hunt. I never have more than three rounds in my gun."
But it's those three rounds that hit a sore spot with the Citizens Defense League.
"Criminals have 30 round clips. Criminals will always have 30 round clips," said Morgan, "Why do you want to hand string me to only three rounds?"
And those hoping Manchin is listening, like Nelson, also hope he asks himself one question: "What have I done? Am I a flip-flopper or a NRA member?"
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