Free-State Militia:
Peace Through Strength
Bottom Line Up Front: A Free-State Militia policy restores the Founders’ vision of an engaged, armed citizenry as part of our security architecture. It’s a uniquely American strength. Switzerland has peace through a similar model (armed populace). We can have that here: Colorado communities, strengthened by responsible armed citizens, can maintain peace through strength. When every tyrant or criminal knows the people of Colorado stand ready to defend their freedoms and homes, trouble is less likely to come. In this way, we keep the peace and ensure Colorado remains secure and free for generations to come.
a. Founding Intent: The Free-State Militia concept comes straight from the wording of the Second Amendment: “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State….” In modern terms, this speaks to the idea of an armed citizenry that can be called upon to defend their community, state, or nation – as opposed to sole reliance on a standing army. “Well regulated” in 18th century meant well-trained and orderly, not government-restricted. The militia historically meant all able-bodied citizens capable of bearing arms. George Mason explained, “I ask, who are the militia? It is the whole people…” Maintaining a free-state militia means preserving the populace’s arms and skills so that, collectively, they serve as a deterrent to invasion, insurrection, or tyranny. Peace Through Strength is a principle that when potential foes (whether criminals or invaders) know the people are strong and ready, conflict is less likely. It parallels Reagan’s maxim and even biblical sentiment (Jesus talked about a strong man armed guarding his house, Luke 11:21). We will implement policies that encourage citizen readiness and integrate civilians into our emergency security framework, consistent with constitutional limits.
b. Policy Vision:
1. State Defense Force: Colorado has the National Guard as our primary state militia force under dual state-federal control. But some states also maintain a State Defense Force (SDF) purely under state command, especially for in-state missions (disaster relief, infrastructure protection). Colorado statutes authorize an inactive Colorado State Defense Force. We propose revitalizing it as an all-volunteer auxiliary. This SDF can be composed of honorably discharged vets, first responders, and other civic-minded volunteers who train periodically. They would not deploy federally; they’d assist the Guard and local authorities during crises (wildfires, floods, civil emergencies) and add a layer of hometown security (freeing the Guard for bigger tasks). This is fully within the concept of “well-regulated militia” for state security. We’ll ensure they are trained, perhaps focus on engineering, medical, and communications skills among volunteers. This strengthens our resilience and sends a message: Colorado can handle emergencies with her own people at the ready.
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2. Civilian Marksmanship and Preparedness: Historically, programs like the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) were encouraged by the government to ensure citizens could shoot accurately if called. We will promote firearms training and competitions for the public. For example, partner with gun clubs and 4-H to expand youth marksmanship training. We might establish a Colorado marksmanship championship or support schools with shooting sports teams (as safety and budget allow). We could also offer tax credits for attending certified gun safety and tactics courses. A populace that is skilled with arms contributes to that “well-regulated” aspect of the militia. Likewise, we can encourage preparedness in general: maybe sponsor community emergency response team (CERT) training – so neighbors know basic rescue, medical, comms, which ties into militia spirit of self-reliance in crisis.
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3. Oppose Federal Infringements: We will actively oppose any federal attempts to disarm or commandeer our state’s armed citizens. Post-Bruen, if Congress tried, say, a ban on AR-15s or magazines, Colorado under our leadership would consider a “Second Amendment Sanctuary” stance – meaning state and local law enforcement would be instructed not to enforce unconstitutional federal gun grabs. Many Colorado counties already declared themselves 2A sanctuaries under the previous red flag law. We support that sentiment: local sheriffs upholding the Constitution matter. Our goal is the federal government should never have to consider the nightmare of trying to confiscate weapons here – because Coloradans and their state government will stand firm as a free state militia.
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4. Community Defense Initiatives: We will work with communities, especially in rural areas, to formalize neighborhood watch and posse comitatus concepts. For instance, county sheriffs can deputize volunteers in emergencies. We want a pipeline for responsible gun owners to assist law enforcement when needed (search and rescue operations, perimeter security during a manhunt, etc.). By building trust and coordination now (through joint trainings, maybe an annual “Militia Day” drill at county level), we ensure smooth cooperation if a crisis hits – like widespread riots or a grid-down scenario. This is not promoting vigilantism; it’s structured volunteerism under rule of law.
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5. Peace Through Strength – Crime Deterrence: Just as a strong national defense deters foreign aggression, a strong community deters crime. We uphold “peace through strength” domestically by policies like encouraging armed self-defense and not impeding law-abiding carry (as discussed in Right to Bear Arms section). Criminals think twice if they suspect homeowners or bystanders could be armed. We also push for robust policing as part of that strength – properly funded, well-trained police form the organized part of our modern “militia” defending the peace. We reject calls to defund police; instead, we integrate community and police efforts. A populace that supports and supplements its peace officers yields safer streets.
6. Education in Civics and Duty: A free-state militia isn’t just about guns; it’s about mindset of civic duty. We will emphasize in education the responsibility of citizens to defend their country and state. Perhaps bring back some form of voluntary ROTC or junior guard programs in high schools that teach leadership, discipline, and survival skills. Also, we’ll educate about Colorado’s history of citizen soldiers (like the miners who formed militias during the Civil War to repel Confederate advances at Glorietta Pass, etc.). Understanding that ordinary folks have always been part of security fosters unity and confidence.
**No Tolerance for Extremism: A note – we will differentiate clearly between legitimate militia tradition and unlawful paramilitary or extremist vigilantism. The right to bear arms and assemble doesn’t allow plotting violence or private armies to intimidate others. While we celebrate armed citizens, anyone misusing that (e.g., militias threatening officials or groups) will face law enforcement. True “well regulated” means under the law and aimed at defense of liberty, not disruption. We believe our approach channels militia energy into positive, lawful readiness – reducing the appeal of any rogue actors. By involving citizens in official auxiliary roles, we actually undercut anti-government fringe activity because people see they’re welcomed in protecting the community.