Adam Lowe, vice chairman of the Bradley County Commission and current candidate for state representative for Bradley, Meigs, and Polk counties, has earned an “AQ” rating from the National Rifle Association. This rating comes after completing the questionnaire provided by the NRA Political Victory Fund.
The Lowe campaign said, "This comes as little news to many in Bradley County who have seen the vice chairman’s consistent advocacy of Second Amendment Rights. While commissioner, Lowe wrote and passed a resolution of Second Amendment support."
“I am proud to have a personal and voting history of supporting our gun rights” said Vice Chairman Lowe. “This rating only indicates where my values align and does not reflect an endorsement.”
He said he was referring to "my opponent’s recent reprimand by the NRA for releasing marketing ads that improperly suggested political endorsement."
In an email to the Lowe campaign, NRA State Liaison Trevor Santos stated, “I have reached out to Mr. (Dan) Howell and let him know the use of our logo is strictly prohibited unless express permission is granted by the NRA Secretary's office. It is on very rare occasion that permission is given to use our logo for campaign purposes. “
Typically the NRA only allows for use of the image when they have openly endorsed a candidate, it was stated.
The Lowe campaign said, "Such misleading action from the Howell campaign is nothing new. In May, Mr. Howell posted an ad that pictured his sign in the yard of the local VFW. The post read that he has 'demonstrated support' of the local chapter. The sign was quickly removed by VFW officials and the state office clarified that VFWs do not endorse political candidates.
"These actions by the Howell campaign are just politics as usual and political posturing."
“I would hope that candidates could maintain their espoused integrity and not intentionally mislead people” said Vice Chairman Lowe. “Surely we are all more grown-up than that.”