Gubernatorial candidate Walt Maddox responds to NRA questionnaire

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — With students exiting classes in Huntsville and across the U.S. Wednesday to express concern about their safety, the gun debate is again front and center.

So, political candidates are on notice that voters are paying attention.

Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox, a Democratic candidate for governor, seems to be counting on that in his response to an NRA candidate questionnaire.

The National Rifle Association’s Political Victory Fund makes it clear its support or opposition to candidates includes how they respond to an NRA gun legislation questionnaire.

For a Democrat in a red state, it’s an especially complicated dance. The NRA spent $55,000 opposing Doug Jones in the recent U.S. Senate special election.

Since he’s won, Jones has publicly opposed an NRA approved call for arming teachers, saying, “I think that’s the dumbest idea I’ve ever heard.”

Maddox, released a letter he’s written to the NRA, in response to the organization’s questionnaire, saying he won’t commit to any specific legislation in advance, even if it costs him support.