Public duels just might encourage D.C. civility

Just like every other citizen in the country, I have been watching the antics of our elected officials with dismay. Just the other day, while lying prone in the dentist’s chair with nothing else to occupy my mind, I arrived at a very sensible solution to the rancorous behavior of our elected officials. It doesn’t require new laws or special elections or new taxes. Civility would return to the nation’s capital in very short order.

We simply need to eliminate the ban on dueling and eliminate the weapons free zone for legislators within the congressional buildings. I’m not talking Uzis or AR15s here. But giving the legislators black powder dueling pistols and ceremonial swords would encourage civility and hold down incidental casualties. This would solve a myriad of problems in the government. It is human nature to hold back on outrageous accusations when the person you are insulting is packing. Acidic tongues are neutralized when the threat of becoming a shish-kabob on the National Mall at dawn is in the back of your mind.

Think of the other problems that would be solved. Legislative pensions would be reduced saving the country money. Term limits would no longer be called for since aging congressmen with bad eyes and shaking hands would be weeded out. Our officials would all suddenly get clarity on what the first amendment means and the fact that it really does have limitations. As a bonus, they would also gain insight on the second amendment.

Huh, maybe after a few duels, praying in public would once again become acceptable.

HERBERT WIENS

Sandpoint