This op-ed was submitted exclusively to Michigan News Source by Perry Johnson, a Republican running for governor.

LANSING, Mich. – Some of my greatest memories growing up were spent fishing with my dad. I still remember the excitement of catching a perch, cleaning it right there on the dock, and throwing it on the grill while we kept fishing. It wasn’t just about catching fish—it was about spending time together, learning responsibility, and appreciating the outdoors that make Michigan such a special place to live.

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For many Michigan families, those kinds of traditions are a way of life. Hunting, fishing, and time spent outdoors bring generations together and help pass down the values that define our state.

The Second Amendment is closely tied to that heritage. For many people in Michigan, firearms are part of family traditions that stretch back generations—from deer camps in Northern Michigan to bear hunting in the Upper Peninsula.

But the Second Amendment is about far more than outdoor sports.

It is one of the most important protections in the United States Constitution. It guarantees that law-abiding Americans have the right to keep and bear arms. That right is not granted by government. It is a fundamental liberty that government is required to respect.

As a candidate for Governor of Michigan, I believe strongly that our state must stand firmly on the side of protecting the constitutional rights of responsible citizens.

The founders of our country understood that an armed citizenry was essential to preserving freedom. The right to bear arms exists not only for hunting or recreation, but for the ability of citizens to defend themselves, their families, and ultimately their way of life.

The Second Amendment serves as a safeguard against tyranny and a reminder that government derives its authority from the people—not the other way around.

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Unfortunately, many politicians today are pushing policies that restrict the rights of law-abiding gun owners while doing little to address violent crime. Instead of focusing on criminals, they focus on citizens who follow the law.

That approach is backwards. Criminals by definition don’t follow the law.

If elected Governor, I will pursue policies that protect the rights of responsible gun owners while ensuring that law enforcement has the tools necessary to keep our communities safe.

First, I support Constitutional Carry in Michigan. Law-abiding citizens should not have to ask the government for permission to exercise a constitutional right. More than half the states in America now allow responsible adults to carry firearms without a permit. Michigan should join them.

Responsible gun owners should still have the option to obtain concealed carry permits for reciprocity with other states, but the government should not require a permit simply to exercise a constitutional right.

Although unnecessary if we pass Constitutional Carry, in the meantime I believe we should eliminate the fees required to renew Concealed Pistol Licenses (CPLs) in Michigan.

Citizens should not be forced to pay recurring fees to maintain their constitutional rights. If someone has already passed a background check and safety training, there is no justification for repeatedly charging them money just to renew a license.

Rights should not come with a recurring tax bill.

I oppose Red Flag laws that allow firearms to be confiscated without full due process protections. While protecting public safety is critical, our constitutional rights must not be weakened in the process.

Every American is entitled to due process under the law. Policies that allow firearms to be seized based on accusations or claims—without a fair legal process—undermine the very constitutional principles our country was founded upon.

Instead of targeting law-abiding citizens, Michigan should focus on the real causes of violent crime.

That means enforcing existing laws against criminals who use firearms illegally. It means cracking down on illegal gun trafficking. It means supporting law enforcement and strengthening mental health resources for people in crisis.

Law-abiding citizens are not the problem.

Michigan also has a strong outdoor economy built around hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting. Sporting goods stores, outfitters, and firearm manufacturers support thousands of jobs across the state.

Protecting the Second Amendment also means protecting these industries and the economic opportunities they provide to communities across Michigan.

At the end of the day, the debate over gun rights is really a debate about freedom.

Do we trust responsible citizens to exercise their constitutional rights? Or do we believe government should control those rights?

I believe strongly in the principles that made America the freest nation in the world.

As Governor, I will defend the Second Amendment, protect Michigan’s hunting and fishing traditions, and ensure that the constitutional rights of our citizens remain secure for generations to come.

Because freedom, once lost, is very difficult to restore.

And protecting freedom is the responsibility of every generation.

Submitted by Perry Johnson, candidate for governor of Michigan.