Chet Edwards For Congress

September 29, 2006
In Another Blow to Taylor Campaign, NRA Refuses to Endorse Him
Edwards Receives “B” for strong support of Second Amendment

Waco – Today, the National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF) refused to endorse challenger Van Taylor against Congressman Chet Edwards, despite having endorsed Edwards’ opponents in the last three elections. The NRA-PVF also awarded Edwards a “B” grade for his strong support of the Second Amendment.

“As a lifelong gun owner and hunter, I have great respect for the Second Amendment and the rights of gun owners. I am proud to have voted with the NRA 100% of the time on gun issues in the last five years, including protecting gun manufacturers from civil liability and opposing gun registration,” said Edwards.

“Mr. Taylor’s failure to win the NRA-PVF endorsement is another great victory for our campaign, since the NRA has endorsed my last three opponents.”

Failing to receive the NRA endorsement is another devastating blow for Taylor and continues a trend of conservative-leaning groups that usually endorse Republicans either staying out of the race or choosing to endorse Edwards. Last month, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Federation of Independent Business and the Texas Association of Business’ BACPAC endorsed Edwards. The three business groups had all endorsed Edwards’ 2004 opponent, Arlene Wohlgemuth.

Edwards has been a hunter since he was 10 years old and frequently takes his two young sons out to learn how to shoot and handle firearms. For the last few years, Edwards has sponsored a hunt for the Texas Wildlife Association's Youth Hunting Program. During these hunts, Edwards has brought young people together from all across the district to share in the Texas heritage of hunting.

Edwards has a strong record with the NRA. He has repeatedly co-sponsored the NRA’s top legislative priority, the DC Personal Protection Act, which would allow people living in the District of Columbia the right to keep firearms in their homes in order to protect their families. In addition, Edwards:

• Supported allowing the assault weapons ban to expire in 2004.
• Opposes federal firearm owner licensing and registration.
• Supports barring civil liability against firearm manufacturers and dealers.
• Believes background checks at gun shows should be timely and protect the privacy of gun buyers and vendors
• Supports Right-to-Carry reciprocity legislation.
• Supports independent evaluation of universal ballistic testing programs.
• Opposes banning ammunition magazines
• Opposes new waiting periods for handguns.
• Believes no records should be maintained on any lawful gun buyer.
• Supports restoration of Second Amendment rights for the District of Columbia.