It is unfortunate that fear of the National Rifle Association, the most powerful lobby in the United States, controls the actions relating to gun control by our presidential candidates.

Mitt Romney was the chief speaker at the recent NRA convention, which supports him in his campaign with contributions of millions of dollars.

The assault-weapons ban signed by President Bill Clinton in 1994 expired during George W. Bush’s first term.

The response to the question of the use of assault weapons during the presidential campaign has been inadequate on both sides. Laws controlling assault weapons are nonexistent in many states. Education will not prevent violent aggressors from obtaining guns.

No civilized Western culture allows the freedom of gun ownership that our nation allows. Unrestricted possession of weapons causes numerous killings and accidents.

Marion Winsor

State College