Before First Debate, Maine Sportsman’s Alliance Gives Sarah Gideon Failing Grade, Endorses Senator Collins

The Maine chapters of Moms Demand Action and Students Demand Action, both part of Everytown for Gun Safety’s grassroots networks, today released the following statement in response to the Maine Sportsman’s Alliance endorsement of Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and giving a failing grade to Sarah Gideon, in part because she has “attached her wagon to the Moms Demand Action” effort.

“The Sportsman’s Alliance is a leading opponent to the common sense gun safety legislation Senator Collins claims to support, which is why their endorsement tells you Sarah Gideon is the right choice for Maine,” said Jessica Lamoureux, a volunteer with the Maine chapter of Moms Demand Action and member of the Everytown Survivor Network, whose uncle died by gun suicide and brother died by gun homicide. “Make no mistake, Maine has a gun violence crisis — particularly when it comes to gun suicide. We need to elect a leader who will fight to change that, not sit idly by when given an opportunity to save lives.”

The Maine Sportsman’s Alliance were the leading opponents against a background check expansion ballot measure in 2016 and red flag legislation, which has been proven to save lives and prevent gun suicides.

In Maine, 89% of all gun deaths are suicides. More than 130 people die from gun suicide annually, on average, in Maine. There are 67 hours between gun suicide deaths in the state. Read more about gun violence in Maine here.

Tonight marks the first live debate between Sen. Collins and former Speaker Gideon. In June, Everytown for Gun Safety Action Fund endorsed Maine Speaker of the House Sara Gideon for U.S. Senate in Maine, lauding her commitment to gun safety.