So, we have to ask: Was Stephen Paddock a terrorist?

[Hortensis]

23. Good conversation. Our LEGAL definition:

"The U.S. Code of Federal Regulations defines terrorism as "the unlawful use of force and violence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives" (28 C.F.R. Section 0.85)."

That's my definition also, no matter how ignorantly or opportunistically the term may be used.

Paddock reportedly lived in Mesquite, NV, so he was at least for a time intensely immersed in the Bundy standoff controversy and at least surrounded by the people who flooded in to participate, including journalists. The trials have been going on all year, so while we mostly move on, it's still happening there.

Whether that had anything at all to do with this, of course, is only speculation.

Btw, according to our government's definition of terrorism, here's who committed all known domestic attacks:

Right wing, non-Islamic: 74%
Islamic: 24%
Left wing, non-Islamic 2%

Almost all Islamic terrorists are right wing, so I'd really like to know if any of those were left wing. 100% are extremist though, not just angry people acting out.