The National Rifle Association is still struggling to right itself after its longtime chairman stepped aside amid federal investigations into its spending practices. In a sign that its political astuteness is still in doubt, the group endorsed a Democratic congresswoman for her reelection, drawing scorn from conservatives who would otherwise welcome pro-gun election-year activity.
Mary Peltola (D-Alaska) is the only Democrat the NRA will endorse in 2024, a rare accomplishment for the Alaskan lawmaker who is the first member of her party to earn the nod since 2020 when it backed Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN). As the state’s sole member of Congress, Rep. Peltola claims she owns 176 long guns and dares “someone to tread on Alaskan freedoms,” The Hill reported. “Guns are an integral part of Alaska’s culture and our subsistence lifestyles,” Peltola said in a statement touting the endorsement. “Alaskan gun [owners] are the strongest proponents for responsible gun ownership. We pass down our knowledge and skills to our children.”
(VOTE: Are You Supporting TRUMP Or KAMALA In November?)
Since controversially beating former Gov. Sarah Palin in 2022, Rep. Peltola has been one of the few conservative Democrats in the U.S. House, straddling the fence between the Biden