The bad NRA influence must reach to Brazil

Like Minnesotans and residents of 35 states (and growing) across America, Brazilians have rejected gun control. In a big way. The Clinton News Network (CNN) has the story: "Brazilians reject ban on gun sales".

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil (AP) -- Brazilians struck down a proposal to ban the sale of guns in a national referendum, rejecting a bid to stem one of the world's highest firearm murder rates in a debate that mirrored the gun control battle in the United States.

Oh indeed it did mirror the gun control debate here in the US, and it also was soundly thrashed.

Brazil has 100 million fewer citizens than the United States, but a staggering 25 percent more gun deaths at nearly 40,000 a year.

Brazil has a very violent society, but this is not because there are guns. They have myriad social problems, extreme poverty, corruption, and a legal system that is substandard relative to the USA. Personal firearms in such a society may be essential for survival.

While supporters argued gun control was the best way to stop the violence, opponents played on Brazilians' fears that the police can't protect them in the campaign leading up to Sunday's vote.

"I don't like people walking around armed on the street. But since all the bandits have guns, you need to have a gun at home," said taxi driver Mohammed Osei, who voted against the ban.

Brazilians, like residents of New Orleans, understand that when the rubber meets the road, each of us is on our own. It would be great if the government could help us, but don't count on it. There is a thin line between a civilized and ordered society and anarchy. Therefore, having a firearm for self-defense is like having stocked food, water, medicine, etc. It's a tool.

You may never need a firearm, but when you need it, you really need it. This, the Brazilians know.