That I do. But I also learned how to handle bullies well before I was out of 8th grade.
Rule number 1. Let them understand that you will not back down -- ever!
Rule number 2. They understand that even if they were to win the fight, they will get hurt. It will not be a painless experience.
Rule number 3. When they least expect it, you will get even.
Translate that from schoolyard bullies to hard ball politics, and it still works well.
But if someone wanted to take it further than slimy politics, yes, I still have the 2nd Amendment and would not hesitate to invoke it if necessary.