Maine Gov. Paul LePage and National Rifle Association of America lobbyist Chris Cox say a Maine referendum designed to strengthen background checks is an affront to gun rights and individual liberties.

LePage, a Republican, and Cox spoke at a Maine Heritage Policy Center event in Portland on Wednesday. Both spoke out against a ballot initiative that Maine voters will consider this fall that requires background checks before gun transfers and sales between unlicensed firearm dealers.

Cox characterized the initiative as backed by out-of-state elites such as former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg. He says it's "about control."

Mainers for Responsible Gun Ownership is advocating for passage of the referendum. Deputy campaign manager Bobby Reynolds says it represents "a common sense initiative" that has support among many Maine gun owners. - PORTLAND, Maine (AP)

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