Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, a Democrat, is running for a Senate seat and has taken a pro-gun stance despite his past support for gun control measures.
“I believe in our individual right to bear arms,” Bullock said in a campaign ad. “I took on Democrats in Washington to defend it.
“I also believe in common sense steps to reduce gun violence, like background checks on all gun sales. By focusing on public health, and not politics, we can protect our rights and protect people’s lives. As senator, I will.”
The Washington Free Beacon noted that the National Rifle Association has given Bullock an “F” for his past support of gun control measures such as banning the sale of assault weapons.
In 2018, for example, Bullock told CNN, “you know, I would” when asked whether he would back a ban on assault weapons.
According to the NRA’s Institute for Legislative Action, Montana has a conservative slate of gun laws — no license or permit is required to purchase either a rifle or a handgun, for example.
Bullock took office as governor in 2013.