"It is unfortunate that this administration continues to insist on pushing failed solutions to our nation's most pressing problems. We will not allow law-abiding gun owners to be blamed for the acts of criminals and madmen," the NRA said recently in a statement after a meeting with Vice President Biden.

This ideological tripe is as absurd as far left demands that restrict any gun ownership at all. The notion that restrictions on certain kinds of ammunition and weapons lays blame on law abiding gun owners is pure rhetoric. Who exactly believes that?

There is no reason for citizens to possess weapons or ammunition that can be used for mass slaughter. "Criminals and madmen" will seek to kill by whatever means they can obtain but responsible, pragmatic government has a moral duty to protect its citizens while respecting the constitutional rights of gun owners. It is time to stop indulging right-wing hysterics and to start crafting centrist solutions that are in the interest of all Americans. Reasonable gun regulation is an excellent place to start.