Ferguson -- Not Craig

I think Lawrence O'Donnell at times is the evening MSNBC program that focuses too much on "cable bait" current news stories, but its coverage of the events in Ferguson is appropriate. There has been a lot of coverage on this important ongoing story, which is a sort of microcosm and warning. Some remarks provided in a blog thread are suitable here: 

The situation warrants a complete picture look - federal/state roles, civil rights, guns, 1A issues, etc.  It seems telling to me that Art. 1, sec. 10 bars states from having "troops" except by special permission. 

The militarization is a concern. The "2A remedy" relevant to me is not primarily to arm the protesters (though I think people do have an individual right to keep arms by a variety of routes). It is the proper use of force and organization of it. For instance, an organized militia with public servants in control positions could be a useful device in controlling a situation of this sort, including locals from the community. 

Shag's concern for militarization also is part of the conversation. Both state and federal "government" is part of the problem there. Police is supposed to be "militia" in nature, not "military." Anyway, there are a lot of parts involved here.

The importance of using some finesse is seen by how tensions was cooled (at least somewhat)  when control shifted. This also shows the limits of local control in certain contexts even if calls for Obama to get involve (via Art. IV federal action?)  directly might not be necessary.  Obama's remarks about stepping back as was his remarks that both looting (see comments for this aspect which is at times not covered in the commentary) and mistreatment of reporters is not proper behavior. 

The whole thing, including the death of the teenager by the police is tragic,if sadly not overly surprising.