Event takes aim at raising funds for Schweikert

If you've ever wondered whether you're a better shot than a congressional candidate, next week's your chance to find out.

Former Maricopa County Treasurer David Schweikert is putting on a campaign fundraiser Thursday at the Scottsdale Gun Club, which will include time on the facility's tactical range.

Firearm rentals and ammunition are included in the $150 reception fee.

For an extra $600, supporters get to shoot automatic weapons during a special reception featuring National Rifle Association past president Sandra Froman.

Schweikert is one of five Republicans vying for the chance to try to unseat first-term Rep. Harry Mitchell, D-Ariz., this November. Mitchell's 5th Congressional District includes Scottsdale, Tempe, Fountain Hills, Ahwatukee Foothills and west Mesa.

Schweikert campaign manager Bill Conner said the location was picked to help introduce the candidate's message to gun advocates.

Schweikert's main issue is government reform and eliminating congressional earmarks, Conner said, though the event invitation emphasizes Schweikert's support of Second Amendment rights.

"We are a natural fit with the gun-rights community," Conner said. "In fact, some people will probably bring their own pistol to shoot that evening."

And while he said they're fun to shoot, Conner doesn't expect the automatic weapons to be the biggest draw. That will likely be the private reception with Froman, which will be open to attendees willing to pay $750.

Conner said he's heard of other candidates hosting similar events, the last one being at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix about 15 years ago.

A Scottsdale Gun Club employee who declined to give his name said they have hosted events for Republican candidates in the past, although never one as widely advertised as this one.

However, the gun club isn't endorsing any candidates at this point, and Schweikert's campaign did pay to host the event.

No one from Scottsdale Gun Club's management was available to comment Friday.

Of course, the fundraiser begs the question: Is Schweikert a good shot?

"He likes to think he is. I think his campaign manager is, but that's just a personal opinion," Conner said. "He might beat me at the trap range, but during hunting season, he would go hungry."