Amy Brown, the wife of Sam Brown, a Republican Senate candidate and wounded war veteran, is coming to her husband’s defense against attack ads being run by his primary opponent, Dr. Jeffrey Gunter. The ads highlight Sam Brown’s scars from an IED explosion during his deployment to Afghanistan in 2008. Amy Brown argues that the ads are “vile” and “disgusting,” as they are attacking her husband’s physical disfigurement for political purposes. Sam Brown’s scars are seen as a physical testament to his strength through adversity and sacrifice for the country.
The ads being run by Gunter, who served as former President Trump’s U.S. ambassador to Iceland, refer to Sam Brown as “Scam Brown” and as “the newest creature to emerge from the swamp,” insinuating his ties to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell. The ads include unflattering photos and angles of Sam Brown, as well as additions that make his skin look scaley. National Republicans backing Brown have condemned the attack ads, stating that they go too far. The NRSC communications director, Mike Berg, called Gunter’s actions “absolutely disgusting” and criticized him for mocking the wounds of a veteran.
Gunter defended the ads by stating that they were about Sam Brown’s ties to the Washington, D.C., “swamp,” rather than attacking his physical scars. Gunter emphasized that he respects those who serve in the military and that he refuses to judge people based on appearances. He pointed to Sam Brown using his own injuries in his campaign message, including calling himself “Burning Man” and frequently referencing the attack that caused his wounds. Gunter argued that showing someone’s photo in an ad is not an attack and accused Sam Brown of prioritizing D.C. lobbyists and the political elite over Nevada’s working families.
The heated battle between Gunter and Brown escalated when Gunter announced he would be spending millions to ramp up his campaign, including attacks against Brown. The Brown campaign and the NRSC responded with their own attacks, viewing Sam Brown as the best chance to take on incumbent Democrat Sen. Jacky Rosen in November. The primary is scheduled for June 11, and both campaigns are intensifying their efforts to secure the Republican nomination. The outcome of the race will determine who will face off against Sen. Rosen in the upcoming election.
The story sheds light on the personal and political struggles faced by Sam Brown, a wounded war veteran seeking to enter the world of politics. It highlights the challenges and hurdles faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life and dealing with the physical and emotional scars of their service. The controversy surrounding the attack ads underscores the complexities of political campaigning and the ethical considerations that come into play when targeting opponents. As the primary election approaches, the focus is shifting towards the candidates’ platforms, policies, and ability to represent the interests of the people of Nevada.
