After every election, we always manage to hear the winning side say that they have a mandate from the American people.  The people have spoken, and they want their plan over their opponent's plan.  And there is no doubt that after the presidential election in November, whoever comes out on top will be declaring the same thing.  But is there really anything to it?  Can any side really claim a mandate just because they win the election?

All of us are aware that of the tragedy that struck Aurora, CO last Thursday night as James Holmes barged into the midnight premiere of Dark Night Rises and shot 70 people. The story coming out today revolves around Christian Bale visiting victims of the shooting in the hospital today.

The horrific event has been politicized by gun-rights and gun-control advocates as they scrap to stay in the spotlight or trade blows on the issue. The discussion around the event has been off-point and disrespectful to the victims, their friends, and their families.