Updated: October 18, 2013, 11:01 AM
A Republican candidate running for the New Jersey state Senate urged an group of gun rights activists earlier this month to get their guns if approached by his Democratic opponent.
The candidate, Atlantic County Sheriff Frank Balles, was discussing his Democratic opponent, state Sen. Jim Whelan, on Oct. 7 in front of the New Jersey Second Amendment Society.
“When someone’s been elected for 30 years and he comes knocking on your door and tells you, ‘Listen, this is what I want to do to help you,’ quickly close your door, go inside,” Balles said.
A member of the audience quickly interjected, “And get your gun!”
Balles quickly responded, “And get your gun, exactly!”
Video of Balles’ appearance was posted by the pro-gun group Bold Departure. His comments were part of a speech in which he was explaining his positions on guns. (He strongly opposes a range of gun restrictions laws.)
Balles’ campaign did not return requests for comment on Thursday morning.
Recent polling showed Whelan leading Balles in the race for New Jersey’s Second Legislative District.
Watch the video below.
Update: By Friday, Bold Departure had removed the video from public view. But TPM managed to get a copy before it came down. Below is the excerpt showing Balles’ comments.
