No surprises here, but it seems that Rep. Debra Maggart’s work with business owners to prevent the so-called “guns in parking lots” bill (or Safe Commute Act, depending) from passing earned her a volley from the firearms lobby. The National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund this week endorsed Maggart’s Republican primary opponent, Lt. Col. Courtney Rogers.

The pertinent part of their press release follows:

Fairfax, Va. – The National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF) is announcing its endorsement of Courtney Rogers for the Tennessee House of Representatives in District 45 in the August 2 Republican primary election.

“Courtney Rogers is a staunch supporter of our right to keep and bear arms,” said Chris W. Cox, chairman of NRA-PVF. “Serving our country in the U.S. military for 28 years on sensitive and important missions, Lt. Colonel Rogers has demonstrated her leadership abilities which the state of Tennessee so badly needs today. Because of her outspoken support of our Second Amendment freedoms, Courtney Rogers has earned an “AQ” rating and endorsement from the NRA-PVF.”

In contrast, her opponent, Representative Debra Maggart, has undermined our Second Amendment rights. Just this past session, Rep. Maggart tried to kill life-saving legislation known as the Safe Commute Act through procedural maneuvering behind closed doors. The Safe Commute Act would have ensured that Tennessee’s 350,000 handgun carry permit holders would have been able to defend themselves against violence as they commuted away from home. NRA members throughout the state can rest assured that Lt. Colonel Rogers, once elected to office, will see that this wrong is righted.

Rep. Maggart has been contacted for a response.

The 45th District covers a portion of Sumner County, including Goodlettsville and Hendersonville. The winner of the August 2 primary will face Democratic Party candidate Jeanette Jackson in the November general election.