Both remaining Alabama 6th Congressional District candidates got a boost today by landing sought-after endorsements. Gary Palmer garnered the support of former rival Will Brooke, and Paul DeMarco earned the backing of the National Rifle Association.
RELATED: DeMarco vs. Palmer for all the marbles; how we got here and what to watch for next
Brooke announced his support of Palmer during a press conference at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
“Gary and I have known each other for a number of years,” Brooke said. “Maggie and I have been supportive of the Alabama Policy Institute and the work that he’s done there over time, and have gained a great respect for Gary and for his family, and for the quality of his work, and his character. He’s a man of very strong character, very well founded, high principles. Also, he has a very keen intellect, and is one of the best read, well-studied, well prepared people I can imagine for an office in the U.S. Congress.”
Meanwhile, the head of the NRA’s political action committee encouraged NRA members to vote for DeMarco.
“Paul has proven his determination to fight for gun owners and hunters in Alabama,” said NRA Political Victory Fund chairman Chris Cox. “He shares the NRA’s commitment to stand strong against the Obama-Bloomberg gun control agenda in Washington. We urge all NRA members and supporters in Alabama’s 6th Congressional District to vote for Paul DeMarco on July 15th.”
DeMarco previously received an A rating from the NRA during the primary election phase of his campaign.
“It’s an honor to be supported by the National Rifle Association,” DeMarco said. “If elected, I’ll be able continue with my strong legislative track record on gun issues with resounding votes in favor of the Second Amendment in Washington. It’s vital that we send a congressman to DC who will protect not just the Second Amendment, but all of our conservative Alabama values.”
DeMarco received 33% of the vote in the primary election last Tuesday. Palmer came in at 20%, so he has a good bit of ground to make up, which he’s hoping to do in part by attracting the 14% of primary voters who voted for Brooke.
The runoff is set to take place just over 5 weeks from now on Tuesday, July 15. The Secretary of State expects the turnout to be historically low, possibly around 5 percent.
Follow Cliff on Twitter @Cliff_Sims
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