I want to start a thread, but I think I will need moderator support

There is certainly not a consensus that that thread should exist, so it’s not a good precedent.

And note in the subsequent conversation @engineer_comp_geek justifies the thread by saying that it is not restricted to people on one side of the issue. He clarifies the moderation policy - you are allowed to dispute whether a posted story is actually good (i.e. pro-gun) news.