Garden State Times

Governor Murphy's recent announcement highlighted a reduction in shooting victims in New Jersey for 2024. However, some officials argue that the statement overlooked the impact of the 2022 Bruen decision, which allowed law-abiding citizens to carry concealed firearms for self-defense.

Senator Parker Space and Assembly Members Dawn Fantasia and Michael Inganamort have pointed out this omission. They credit the decision with enabling residents to take control of their safety.

“For years, liberals warned us that allowing concealed carry in New Jersey would lead to chaos and violence—the so-called ‘Wild West,’” said Senator Space (R-24), who has held concealed carry licenses in multiple states. “The reality is clear: giving law-abiding citizens the ability to defend themselves has not only failed to increase shootings but may actually be helping reduce them. The proof is staring us all in the face.”

The U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 Bruen decision recognized the constitutional right of Americans to carry firearms outside their homes and imposed stricter standards for evaluating firearm regulations. Since then, there has been an increase in concealed carry permits in New Jersey, empowering responsible gun owners.

“New Jersey residents have sent a loud and clear message to criminals: they will not be victims,” said Assemblywoman Fantasia (R-24), a gun owner and staunch Second Amendment supporter. “These perpetrators are starting to think twice, knowing that their next carjacking attempt might be their last.”

Following Bruen, several court challenges have aimed at dismantling New Jersey’s restrictive firearms laws. Senator Space, Assemblywoman Fantasia, and Assemblyman Inganamort have supported these efforts.

“We are fighting to ensure New Jersey citizens can fully exercise their constitutional rights, just like most Americans across the country,” said Assemblyman Inganamort (R-24), a longtime Second Amendment advocate and gun owner. “With the Constitution—and decisions like Heller, McDonald, and Bruen—on our side, it’s only a matter of time before these oppressive laws are overturned. Until then, Parker, Dawn, and I remain vigilant in defending the rights of lawful gun owners and opposing any further attempts to erode our freedoms.”

The Bruen decision has been significant for Second Amendment rights advocacy by challenging states like New Jersey on firearm ownership restrictions. Despite efforts by some officials to downplay its effects, evidence suggests that empowering responsible gun owners may contribute to enhanced safety.