The Chenango County Judge's seat is up for grabs. I'm excited, are you? There has not been a good contest like this around these parts in so long, I can't remember the last one. The big concern for sportsmen and sportswomen is that the next judge will be the issuing authority for pistol permits (as well as Family Court and Surrogate Judge).
I invited all three candidates to sit with me for an interview and respond to questions that were devised by the Federated Sportsman's Clubs of Chenango County. Ms. DiStefano, Mr. McBride and Mr. Revoir, all responded and I sat with each one for an hour and a half discussing their thoughts on the Second Amendment, pistol licensing in New York State and their background in law. The following are their answers in brief, as documenting their entire interview would be needlessly extensive (and take up the whole paper). Also, there is no rational or subliminal message here as to how I listed their names in their responses. It just happens that it follows when each responded to my invitation, coincidentally it is also in alphabetical order.
And hey, ladies first, right gentlemen?
How old are you?
DiStefano: 41.
McBride: 53.
Revoir: 46.
How many years have you resided in Chenango County?
DiStefano: 15.
McBride: 22.
Revoir: 40.
How many years have you been practicing law?
DiStefano: 11.
McBride: 28.
Revoir: 21.
Describe your philosophy of the Second Amendment?
DiStefano: I am pro-gun, and believe in the Second Amendment.
McBride: I support all of the Constitution.
Revoir: I support the second Amendment.
Do you agree with the Supreme Court’s rulings as to individuals rights to "keep and bear arms"?
DiStefano: Yes, I firmly agree.
McBride: I will follow the Supreme Courts rulings.
Revoir: It is fundamental to all American rights.
Are you familiar with Penal Code, section 400 and the relationship between the County Sheriff's Department and the Issuing Officer, and where ones' duties begin and end in the permitting process?
DiStefano: Yes, I believe in judicial restraint and will be fair and impartial.
McBride: I am familiar with it and know the concerns of the community. I have no problem issuing permits to those qualified.
Revoir: Yes, I understand the distinction and the duties of each office.
Are you currently a gun owner?
DiStefano: I do not own a gun, but they are present in my household (husband owns the guns). I enjoy shooting skeet.
McBride: Yes.
Revoir: No.
Have you owned a gun in the past?
DiStefano: No.
McBride: N/A.
Revoir: No.
Your reason for gun ownership?
DiStefano: N/A.
McBride: Personal protection.
Revoir: N/A.
If you possess a carry permit, have you had to take any of the courses mandated by Judge Sullivan?
