Giffords, one of the nation’s most influential gun reform advocacy groups, has endorsed Democrat Amy Kennedy for Congress in New Jersey’s 2nd district.
“Amy Kennedy is ready to make history by bringing a new voice to the halls of power,” said former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who founded the group after becoming the victim of gun violence.
The decision to back Kennedy was likely an easy one for Giffords: the GOP incumbent, Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-Dennis), had a 100% rating from the National Rifle Association even when he was representing the district as a Democrat.
Van Drew switched parties late last year after refusing to support the impeachment of President Donald Trump.
Giffords said that Kennedy “has the courage and ideas needed to grow our gun safety majority in the House of Representatives.”
“Amy has proven she has what it takes to fight the gun lobby and deliver for her community that wants to see progress in the fight to save lives,” the former congresswoman said. “Giffords is proud to endorse Amy Kennedy and to work with her to end gun violence in America.”
Giffords endorses candidates from both parties.
Last week, they backed Rep. Christopher Smith (R-Hamilton) for re-election to a 21st term in the 4th district, and has also endorsed U.S. Senator Cory Booker and Reps. Andy Kim (D-Moorestown) and Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair).