The National Rifle Association (NRA) has initiated a multi-million dollar campaign targeting a vulnerable Senate Democrat, igniting a political battle over gun rights.
At a Glance
- The National Rifle Association (NRA) launched a $2 million ad campaign against Senator Jon Tester (D-MT).
- The campaign focuses on Tester’s stance on the Second Amendment.
- The ad targets Montana voters through satellite and cable networks.
- Tester faces Republican challenger Tim Sheehy amidst a tight Senate race.
NRA’s Target: Senator Jon Tester
The National Rifle Association (NRA) has launched an ambitious $2 million advertising campaign aimed squarely at Senator Jon Tester (D-MT). The ads focus on Tester’s position on the Second Amendment and are being broadcast throughout Montana via satellite and cable networks.
As the NRA seeks to sway voter opinions, their primary message critiques Tester’s stance on gun rights. Tester’s key opponent in the race, Tim Sheehy, is expected to benefit from the NRA’s substantial financial backing.
NRA Launches 7-Figure Campaign To ‘Fire’ Vulnerable Senate Democrat https://t.co/vzYfWfSNRe pic.twitter.com/UqYTeUMG5C
— Daily Wire News (@DailyWireNews) September 10, 2024
Ad Campaign Details
The NRA’s ad features a woman in rural Montana defending herself from robbers, narrating her concerns about losing her right to self-defense due to Tester’s policies. This dramatic portrayal aims to connect with Montana residents who prioritize gun ownership for personal safety.
“Where I live you can’t wait for 911. My family’s safety is in my hands alone but gun grabbers who’ve never been to Montana let alone out here want to take my rights away. My gun is in my pocket but my Senator is in theirs. Jon Tester failed to protect my right to self-defense and that’s why moms like me can’t wait to fire him in November,” the woman says in the ad.
Significance of the Race
Tester’s voting record reveals complex views. Despite claiming to uphold the Second Amendment, Tester supported the “Bipartisan Safer Communities Act” in 2022, a significant gun control law. Randy Kozuch, NRA Political Victory Fund Chair, criticizes Tester’s support for red flag laws and criminalizing private firearms transfers.
“Though Tester likes to portray himself as a friend of gun owners, his voting record in the Senate makes clear he is not on the side of Montanans who support the 2nd Amendment,” Kozuch stated.
Polls indicate Tester trails Sheehy by approximately five points, suggesting a competitive race that could impact Senate control. Democrats currently hold a narrow two-seat majority, making this election pivotal.
NRA’s Broader Strategy
Kozuch emphasized the critical need for gun owners to actively support pro-Second Amendment candidates. “This November gun owners can’t afford to sit on the sidelines,” he urged. “The NRA is mobilizing considerable resources to support strong pro-Second Amendment candidates for Congress and the White House to ensure that Americans will be able to continue to exercise their right to keep and bear arms.”
In addition to Tester’s race, the NRA and National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) are targeting vulnerable House Democrats, using mobile billboards and ad campaigns to pressure key figures to align with their agenda.
Waiting for officers to respond to your 911 call could result in a fatal cost to you and your family.
Democrat Jon Tester has failed to protect Montanans’ right to self-defense and does not deserve another term in the Senate.https://t.co/COxgp8CSQ8 pic.twitter.com/ewm4BgsSJi
— NRA (@NRA) September 10, 2024
