Meaning: The quote you provided is from Michael Gartner, a journalist, and it addresses the issue of handgun ownership and the potential need for a constitutional amendment to regulate or restrict it. This quote is significant because it touches on a highly debated and controversial topic in the United States – the right to bear arms as outlined in the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

In the United States, the right to bear arms has been a deeply entrenched part of the country's history and culture. The Second Amendment, ratified in 1791, states: "A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." This has been interpreted by many as an individual right to own and carry firearms, including handguns.

However, over the years, there have been increasing calls for stricter gun control measures due to the rising number of gun-related violence and mass shootings in the country. The issue has sparked intense debates, with advocates of gun control arguing for more stringent regulations and restrictions on firearm ownership, while opponents emphasize the importance of individual rights and the Second Amendment.

Michael Gartner's quote reflects the viewpoint of those who advocate for stricter gun control. He argues that there is no valid reason for anyone except law enforcement or military personnel to own or use a handgun. This viewpoint aligns with the belief that limiting access to handguns could potentially reduce gun violence and promote public safety.

Gartner's suggestion that the only way to achieve this is to change the Constitution reflects the significant legal and constitutional barriers to implementing stricter gun control measures. Amending the Constitution is a complex and arduous process, requiring the approval of two-thirds of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, as well as ratification by three-fourths of the states. As such, it highlights the magnitude of the proposed change and the deep-rooted nature of the right to bear arms in American society.

It is important to note that Gartner's viewpoint is just one perspective in the broader discussion on gun control. There are diverse opinions on this issue, and the debate encompasses a wide range of political, social, and ethical considerations. The balance between individual rights and public safety, the impact of gun violence on communities, and the role of government in regulating firearms are all central themes in this ongoing dialogue.

In conclusion, Michael Gartner's quote encapsulates the contentious nature of the debate surrounding handgun ownership and gun control in the United States. It reflects the divergent perspectives on the Second Amendment and the challenges associated with proposing significant changes to the country's foundational legal document. The quote serves as a catalyst for further examination and discussion of the complex issues at the heart of the gun control debate in American society.