GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The Kent County Republican Party says in a news release it is "deeply troubled" by some remarks made Monday night by Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand.
They came during his monthly "Mayor's Monday" community meeting. The party said in a news release that LaGrand suggested that citizens who own firearms should be "ashamed" of themselves.
"Responsible gun ownership is a constitutional right - not a source of shame," the GOP said in its response. "Across Kent County, thousands of law-abiding residents own firearms for hunting, sport shooting, and the protection of their families. These citizens are not criminals; they are veterans, first responders, small business owners, parents, and lifelong outdoorsmen who take safety and responsibility seriously."
Republican State Representative Angela Rigas of Caledonia told WOOD Radio News she feels "utter disappointment" about LaGrand's comments.
"I have had many residents of Grand Rapids reach out to me, personally, as a representative of southern Kent County and express their great concerns over this mayor," she said. "That he is anti-Second Amendment."
“Law-abiding citizens who exercise their constitutional rights should never be told they ought to feel ashamed," Rusty Richter, chairman of the Kent County Republican Party, said in the written release. "In Kent County, we respect the Second Amendment and the responsible men and women who own firearms for lawful purposes. Our focus should be on criminals who misuse guns - not on citizens who follow the law."
Rigas agreed.
"In fact, I think that one should beaming with pride that we have those free rights in this country," she said.
The City of Grand Rapids sent WOOD Radio News a statement from Mayor LaGrand on Wednesday night:
"I want to clarify my recent remarks regarding gun ownership to ensure my intent and perspective are clearly understood by the community. We must be willing to confront the reality of gun violence in our city, and I hope we can move forward together to find solutions that keep our families safe. As a former prosecutor, I saw firsthand that handguns are used disproportionately in the commission of crimes, domestic disputes and suicides, leading to devastating injuries and the tragic loss of life. Now, as Mayor, I continue to bear witness to the aftermath of that violence. I see the pain it causes families and the damage it inflicts on the fabric of our neighborhoods. I am fully aware that the Second Amendment and state law limit the policy options available to a municipal leader. I cannot legislate this pain away. Therefore, my comments were not a signal of impending policy, but an expression of personal frustration and deep sorrow. My goal was to shift our community conversation away from the status quo and toward a serious, honest dialogue and provide an opportunity for all of us to reflect on what truly responsible gun ownership looks like.” - Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand
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The GOP statement went on to say, "Public safety is achieved by enforcing the law, supporting law enforcement, and addressing violent crime - not by shaming responsible citizens.
West Michigan values personal responsibility, constitutional freedoms, and respect for our neighbors. Mayor LaGrand’s remarks do not reflect those values.
The Kent County Republican Party urges city leaders to pursue solutions that unite the community, uphold constitutional rights, and protect public safety without vilifying law-abiding residents."
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State Rep. Angela Rigas, R- Caledonia.Photo: Photo taken by: James Gemmell.