NRA chief stresses common ground with McCain

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) — National Rifle Association chief Wayne LaPierre says Republican John McCain isn't in lockstep with the group on every issue, but the nation's gun owners aren't "foolish enough" to ignore their common ground.

LaPierre sized up the presidential candidates in an interview Tuesday, a few days before the NRA opens its convention in Louisville. McCain is scheduled to speak to the group Friday.

McCain has voted against a ban on assault-type weapons, but he favors requiring background checks at gun shows. McCain also voted to shield gun-makers and dealers from civil suits.

LaPierre was critical of Democrats Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton, saying both are pandering to gun owners by "mouthing pro-Second Amendment words."