Standing before the council, wearing a Young Americans for Liberty shirt, Farrington delivered a forceful defense of the right of law-abiding adults to defend themselves on college campuses.
Farrington, who is also a University of New Hampshire student, is the lead sponsor of legislation that would restore campus carry rights across the Granite State. His bill would ensure students do not lose their Second Amendment rights simply because they choose to get an education.
During his remarks, Farrington confronted the council for trying to strip students of rights that have already been recognized by the Supreme Court.
“When the town council passes a resolution opposing campus carry, you are tyrants. You are tyrants because you are stripping lawful adults of their individual rights.”
He pointed to landmark rulings like District of Columbia v. Heller and New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, which affirmed that the Second Amendment protects an individual right rooted in self-defense.
But as Farrington began explaining that the right to bear arms is a natural right that exists beyond government, a heckler in the audience interrupted him.
“It’s not natural, sir! You’re being ridiculous!” the man shouted.
Farrington didn’t back down.
“Individuals have a natural right to bear arms,” Farrington continued. “Natural rights transcend government. Natural rights come from God alone.”
Despite the interruption, Farrington pressed forward, arguing that rights cannot be decided by popularity contests or campus surveys.
“Rights do not care what surveys feel.”
The real purpose of the Bill of Rights, Farrington said, is to protect individuals, especially when their rights are unpopular with the majority.
“The whole reason why we have the Bill of Rights was to protect the minority when the majority oppresses the minority.”
For Farrington, the issue is simple: constitutional rights should not stop at the campus gate.
By standing before the Durham Town Council and defending campus carry, even while being interrupted by critics, Farrington demonstrated the courage and enthusiasm the liberty movement needs more of.
