Gipson: Lumumba “going against the constitution” with open carry suspension

Last Wednesday, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba signed an executive order temporarily suspending the open carry of firearms within the city of Jackson.

It’s up in the air whether the mayor used the ongoing coronavirus pandemic or the city’s high gun crime rate as justification for the order. Nevertheless, Lumumba is receiving backlash for ultimately defying state law.

Prior to becoming the state’s Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, Andy Gipson chaired the House Judiciary B Committee from 2012-2018 and wrote the current conceal carry law that has been in effect since 2013.

“For the mayor to go against it is to go against the Constitution,” Gipson said.

In Mississippi, open carry is legal for anyone at least 18 years of age who can legally possess a firearm. Restrictions include the firearm having to be in a holster, sheath, or scabbard that is partially to fully visible.

Lumumba’s temporary ban is to remain in effect until Thursday, however, he is seeking a permanent ban of the state law. Gipson thinks a permanent ban would be an irremediable violation of citizens’ rights.

“Once you let a fundamental right slip away, you’ll never get it back.”

To hear the full interview with Gipson, click the video below.