Background checks about public safety

In his May 19 letter, “Criticism about Grassley, guns doesn't hold up,” Dean Varner stated: “Gun ownership is a right guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution.” He went on to say Sen. Chuck Grassley was right not to vote for a background check in order to buy a gun. Sad.

More than 85 percent of Iowans polled favor a background check because they understand it has nothing to do with taking away the Second Amendment rights of the vast majority and everything to do with keeping guns out of the hands of the criminal element and the mentally ill.

Our congressional people should listen to the majority of their constituents, use common sense and vote for a national background check, and implement before anyone can buy a gun.

Larry D. Sharp

Cedar Rapids