Brady Campaign endorses Pascrell

One of the nation’s leading gun control advocacy groups has endorsed Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-Paterson) for re-election in New Jersey’s 9th district, narrowing the already limited path for a progressive challenge in the 2020 Democratic primary.

The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence says it has endorsed candidates with “a proven track record of supporting common-sense gun safety legislation.”

“A super-majority of Americans cry out every day for common sense gun safety measures whose passage can finally address the flood of tragic violence that threatens every American citizen,” said Pascrell.  “That means background checks, that means a ban on military-style assault weapons in our streets, and that means keeping guns out of the hands of criminals, domestic abusers, and extremists. I support each of those measures with every cell in my body.”

Pascrell faces challenges from Zina Spezakis, a clean energy investor, and attorney Alpaslan Basaran in next year’s primary.

He defeated 2018 primary opponent William O. Henry with 86% of the vote.

The twelve-term congressman praised the efforts of the Brady Campaign.

“The courage James Brady showed in life inspires me, as does the leadership of the next generation that is working to save lives and forge a better America,” Pascrell said.  “The progress they have made in the last few years is incredible, and we are closer to true gun safety reforms than we’ve been in decades. I won’t cease fighting to end gun violence in America once and for all. I am proud to stand with the Brady Campaign in this battle.”