NRA adds Kanjorski to list of Dem endorsees

The National Rifle Association (NRA) continued to chose some Democratic incumbents over their Republican challengers when it backed Rep Paul Kanjorski (D-Pa.) on Tuesday.

The NRA on Monday endorsed Democratic Rep. Steve Kagen (Wis.) and it has previously backed freshman Democrats Zack Space (Ohio), Tim Mahoney (Fla.), Jason Altmire (Pa.) and Tim Walz (Minn.), as well as Sen. Tim Johnson and Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin of South Dakota.

Kanjorski’s opponent, Lou Barletta, was endorsed by the Gun Owners of America in September and has since touted his ‘A’ rating from the NRA.

“Lou Barletta is a proud member of the NRA and a gun owner that engages in recreational shooting,” Barletta campaign manager Shawn Kelly said. “In just 21 days, the voters of the 11th congressional district will let everyone know who they believe will best protect them and their 2nd Amendment rights.”

Gun groups have also been split in New Mexico’s 2nd district, where Republican Ed Tinsley has the NRA’s support and Democrat Harry Teague has the backing of the American Hunters and Shooters Association.