As it has done in the past, the National Rifle Association has endorsed George Allen in the U.S. Senate race in Virginia.
The NRA cited Allen's strong stance on the Second Amendment and willingness to protect the "hunting heritage." Chris Cox, chairman of NRA-Political Victory Fund, said that Allen earned an "A" rating and endorsement "because of his proven record of support of our right to keep and bear arms.”
“George Allen knows that further regulation of firearms owned by law-abiding Americans will not reduce violent crime and will only embolden criminals who prey on honest victims," Cox, the NRA's chief lobbyist, said in a statement.
“It’s a most significant honor to receive the important endorsement of the National Rifle Association (NRA), a great American organization with so many patriotic, active members throughout Virginia," Allen said in a statement. "The NRA supports law enforcement professionals, gun safety education and stands strong for our foundational Second Amendment rights. I have always been proud to support the natural rights of law-abiding citizens to protect their families and themselves. In the U.S. Senate I will remain committed to defending our rights enshrined in our Constitution. My friends in the sportsmen community who enjoy the natural beauty of Virginia’s fields, forests, streams and lakes can count on me to be a strong and steadfast advocate for their freedom to hunt and fish. And all Virginians have my commitment to stand up for their God-given rights. The way to reduce crime is to crack down on criminals, not disarm our law-abiding citizens.”
The NRA also endorsed Allen in 2006 in his battle with Jim Webb.
