In what way do Ben and Randy face the same decision as part of protecting their family?

Randy's new role is certainly not the one he envisioned for himself when running for public office months ago. Now, the only way to lead the citizens of Fort Repose effectively is by force, evidenced by the moment in which he pulls out a gun and threatens to shoot the men at the trading post if they do not serve as pallbearers. Now, force rules society; even Ben Franklin is trusted with a gun, and encouraged when he shoots the German Shepherd to save their food. Commands and reasoning are not enough to bring about action if they are not backed by force. Both Ben and Randy must use force to protect their families.