Shooting off your mouth

I shouldn't be surprised that Cheney shooting Whittington has become such a big deal.  I do think it's a big deal for a lot of bad reasons.  My two pennies:

• This doesn't look like it's Cheney's fault.  Yes, he pulled the trigger, but if I learned anything in the hunter safety course I took years ago, it's that if you're in a hunting party, and you fall back or move your position, it's your responsibility to let the others know where you are.  So they won't shoot you.  That's not really related to the PR issue, but it's been annoying me that no one has said this.
• I still think the whole issue should be between Cheney and Whittington, and the sheriff.  But, because of who Cheney is, it can't stay that way,  Right or wrong, that's the case.  So, remembering that bad news ages very badly, it's nearly always better to go ahead and disclose.  And that's what he should have done.
• That said, this one is a no-win situation.  Cheney is going to get basted no matter what he does or doesn't do.
• It's deplorable that the Democrats feel compelled to make this yet another partisan issue.  (Note that I'm not saying Democrats are bad; I'm saying what they're doing on this is stupid.  If Reps did the same, I'd call that stupid, too.)  I don't hear of any of them sending their get-well wishes to Mr. Whittington.
• I'm sure Cheney will defuse this reasonably when he talks to Fox tonight.
• And, if nothing else, it's a good reminder about firearm safety.  You cannot be too careful.  Love guns or hate them, own them or not, it doesn't matter -- everyone should learn how to handle a gun safely.  That alone would cut down on a lot of accidents.
• I hope Mr. Whittington recovers quickly.  Thank God it wasn't worse.

Comments

[Jeff Risley]

You know Mason, that might be the best commentary on this whole situation I've read yet. What I really like about it is the "common sense" tone. Well done.

[Mason Cole]

Thanks Jeff.

[Jack Yan]

Ah, the simplicity of good sense—thank you, Mason. (And thank you, Jeff, for pointing me here. This is the best post about the accident.)

[Rabbit]

Ah... utter crap. :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfOGpg4K4DU&eurl=