Staff Reports
In a bold move that has captured attention across the nation, Congressman Eric Burlison from Missouri is calling for the abolition of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Burlison, a Republican and a member of the Oversight and Accountability Committee, has joined forces with former Congressman Matt Gaetz to co-sponsor legislation aimed at shutting down what he describes as a “disaster” for the American people. According to Burlison, the ATF is not only a redundant agency but has also repeatedly trampled on the rights of law-abiding citizens, particularly when it comes to the Second Amendment.
Burlison’s critique of the ATF is particularly sharp, focusing on the agency’s overreach and what he views as its habit of imposing radical policies that conflict with the rights granted to Americans by their Constitution. He cites the agency’s recent decision regarding pistol braces as a prime example of unnecessary government interference. In that instance, tens of millions of Americans were allegedly branded as lawbreakers simply for possessing legal items. It’s as if the ATF, in Burlison’s view, is operating on a different set of rules—ones that prioritize bureaucratic whims over citizen rights.
Throughout history, the ATF has been involved in several controversial incidents, including events like Ruby Ridge and Waco. These moments have left a stain on the agency’s credibility among many conservatives who feel that it has consistently acted against the interests of the very population it was meant to protect. Burlison advocates for a shift of power away from federal control, suggesting that individual states should take the reins when it comes to law enforcement and regulations surrounding firearms. This, he argues, would allow for more localized and sensible policies that reflect the wishes of the citizenry rather than a distant bureaucracy.
In addition to tackling the ATF, Burlison is also weighing in on another hot topic: tariffs. Following former President Trump’s announcement of a new 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, Burlison expressed strong support for the measure. He believes these tariffs are essential to protecting American citizens from the dangers posed by drug cartels and illegal immigration. His argument hinges on the premise that our neighboring countries should not be profiting from the chaos they allow to spill across the border and that it’s time for them to take responsibility for their roles in these crises.
With poll numbers showing rising favorability for Trump following recent elections, Burlison is optimistic about the path forward. He envisions a collaborative effort between Congress and the new administration to bolster national security and uphold the rights of Americans. As Burlison gears up for what he hopes will be a productive term, he emphasizes the importance of reestablishing trust between the American people and their government—an essential step toward ensuring that the freedoms afforded by the Constitution are preserved for generations to come. In Burlison’s eyes, the abolition of the ATF might just be the first stage in a much-needed overhaul of how America protects its citizens and their rights.
