Congressman Offers AR-15 Assault Rifle Prize

A Republican Senate-hopeful is offering an assault rifle in a prize draw to one of his campaign supporters.

US congressman Paul Broun, who describes himself as a staunch supporter of the Constitution's Second Amendment, which protects the right of individuals "to bear arms", said he was giving away the weapon as part of his "fight back" against gun control.

It comes as the gun debate continues to rage in the US following a string of shootings.

In an email sent out to supporters, Mr Broun said: "How would you like to start off 2014 with a brand new AR-15 for free?

"Barack Obama would like nothing more than to ban the AR-15 rifle - and that's exactly why I've decided to give away a free AR-15 to one of my fellow 2nd Amendment supporters."

The Georgia Representative invited people to put their name forward to be entered into the competition to win the semi-automatic weapon.

He said: "You see, it's no secret that the Democrats and liberal media would love to take away our guns and mandate every aspect of our lives, but I refuse to let them get away with that.

"Today, stand up with me and fight for our freedoms by joining our campaign's contest to win a semi-automatic AR-15."

"I am running for the US Senate because we need true conservative voices who will not only vote right but will also fight tooth and nail for our values and our rights."

The deadline for competition entries is February 27.

He is the second Republican to offer an AR-15 rifle as a competition prize in the run up to a primary election.

South Carolina state Senator Lee Bright, who is also vying to run for the US Senate, invited people on his website to "enter our gun giveaway", with the weapon going to "one lucky Second Amendment supporter".

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