In its fourth advertisement released this week, a pro-gun control group applauded a Republican congressman’s efforts to reduce gun violence.
Americans for Responsible Solutions (ARS), the group founded by former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords after she was critically wounded in a shooting outside of a supermarket in 2011, is urging Pennsylvanians to vote for GOP Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick in November’s election.
As the narrator explains in the 30-second spot, “Not Afraid to Lead,” the incumbent congressman has attempted to encourage his colleagues — both Republicans and Democrats — in Washington to pass stricter gun control measures. Last year, Fitzpatrick co-sponsored a bill that would have expanded background checks for gun purchases online and at gun shows. He also wants to strengthen reporting to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System.
“Commonsense — that’s never been more important,” the narrator says in the ad. “We can get it right. It just takes a leader like Mike Fitzpatrick.” The narrator explains that Fitzpatrick has attempted to keep guns out of the hands of stalkers, domestic abusers and other individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
The commercial reveals the contrast between Fitzgerald’s initiatives and the views of Republican candidates Martha McSally of Arizona, and Frank Guinta and Marilinda Garcia of New Hampshire.
ARS earlier this month released an ad highlighting McSally’s opposition to closing the background check loophole. On Tuesday the group released a second ad shedding light on her resistance to other gun-control initiatives. McSally is a retired Air Force fighter pilot who is backed by the gun lobby.
The group on Wednesday expanded its campaign for tighter gun control laws by debuting videos targeting Guinta and Garcia in New Hampshire.
The organization’s latest ad will air for at least two weeks in Pennsylvania, which is considered a swing state in presidential elections. Fitzpatrick, the incumbent, is seeking his third term in the upcoming race against Democrat and former Army Ranger Kevin Strouse. Pennsylvania’s Eighth District is viewed as competitive.
Michele Richinick