Asked by Chris Matthews on "Hardball," Georgia Republican Phil Gingrey defended
Americans who attend town halls while packing guns. "It just so happens those same
people would take that weapon anywhere they go," said Gingrey, "They are permitted to
carry a concealed weapon. They have the right to do that."
Matthews interrupted him. “They’re not concealed. … We’re looking at gentlemen here
that have guns on them, in their holsters. They’re not concealed. They’re basically
displaying their weapons. Armed weaponry at these public meetings. I’m just asking,
why is it going on? …”
Gingrey replied: “Well Chris, they have the right to do that. I have no fear of it. I’ve already
had five town hall meetings; I have six more planned. I don’t plan on wearing a bullet-
proof vest. In fact, I usually get standing ovations when I come into these meetings …
I have no fear.”
