Akshar May Consider Carrying Gun for Protection

State Senator Fred Akshar, a former law enforcement officer, says he might consider arming himself in the future.

Akshar discussed the issue of security for elected officials in the aftermath of the shooting as members of a congressional baseball team practiced in Virginia.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program Friday morning, Akshar said he has not carried a gun as senator "to date." But, he said he's "licensed to carry a firearm. I am trained appropriately and I have that option available."

When asked about whether he would consider carrying a gun, he said "I certainly would." He said "it's certainly within my right to do so."

Akshar said he has a responsibility "to keep my staff safe (and) keep myself safe... I will take advantage of every option that is available to me."

The Broome County Republican said he believes it's important for everyone, including elected officials, to tone down their rhetoric to try to reduce the potential for violence.

Akshar served in law enforcement for fifteen years before he was elected to the state Senate. He had been Broome County undersheriff before he ran for office.

Congressman Chris Collins of Erie County responded to this week's shooting near Washington by announcing he plans to carry a gun in his pocket while in public.

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