Rightly Decided, Your Honor [PHIL-OSOPHY]

U.S. District Judge Douglas P. Woodlock said Thursday that there wasn't any justification between ordering gun shops to close and a health emergency.

Thank you, your honor, for making a correct conclusion. I couldn't figure out the rationale of the governor's flip flop. And quite frankly, Charlie Baker never offered a sensible explanation of why gun shops are not essential businesses during a pandemic. If the governor meant that protecting my family isn't considered essential, he's mistaken.

During emergency health orders, people are concerned about food, water, everyday grocery needs, shelter and the safeguarding of their loved ones. Nothing is more "mandatory" or high priority. What we're not looking for during an emergency order is the seizure of our Second Amendment rights, because this is a public safety issue.

Apparently, Judge Woodlock agrees. He has shown respect and acknowledgment of our constitutional rights, something Baker rode roughshod over. The judge's decision is a clear vindication for our liberties and a reprimand that Baker does not have the authority or upper hand over our rights.

We're going to hear a cacophony of criticism about the judge's verdict. You'll hear insults, put-downs, outrage and slander from gun rights folks and others who disagree with me. That's fine. That's their right.

Phil Paleologos is the host of The Phil Paleologos Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Contact him at phil@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @PhilPaleologos. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.