Fairfax, VA -- The National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF) is endorsing Paul LePage for election in the Maine gubernatorial race on November 2. The NRA-PVF has not endorsed a candidate in a Maine gubernatorial race in 20 years.
"Maine has a long record of strong firearm ownership and wildlife stewardship," said Chris W. Cox, chairman of NRA-PVF. "It is time to elect a governor who will support gun owners, hunters and sportsmen in Maine. Paul LePage has earned the NRA-PVF endorsement for his commitment to preserving our Second Amendment rights and hunting heritage."
Paul LePage's support for individual gun ownership rights and our hunting heritage as Mayor of Waterville has earned him an "AQ" rating from the NRA-PVF. LePage helped protect gun retailers from unlawful sting operations by standing up to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and his anti-gun agenda. Maine has the nation's highest firearms ownership per capita, as well as the lowest rate of violent crime per capita; however, it has been consistently targeted on the national level by anti-gun and anti-hunting organizations.
"Paul LePage will be a strong voice for hunters and law-abiding gun owners in Maine," Cox continued. "We ask all gun owners and sportsmen to vote Paul LePage for Governor on November 2."
Chris W. Cox is NRA's chief lobbyist. He also serves as chairman of NRA-PVF. The National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund is responsible for political candidate rankings. These are based on candidate voting records, public statements and responses to NRA-PVF questionnaires.
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America's oldest civil rights and sportsmen's group. More than five million members strong, NRA continues to uphold the Second Amendment and advocates enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation's leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the armed services. Be sure to follow the NRA on Facebook and on Twitter @NRA.