Controversial activist acquitted of killing two at 2020 protest endorses Alabama Republican

Kyle Rittenhouse, a prominent gun rights advocate known for his involvement in a 2020 protest, has officially weighed in on Alabama’s U.S. Senate race. On Tuesday evening, Rittenhouse took to social media to announce his support for Republican candidate Jared Hudson.

A High-Profile Endorsement

Rittenhouse shared his backing on X, stating, "After everything I went through, I’m committed to standing up for law-abiding Americans and their Second Amendment freedoms. That is why I am proud to stand with @JaredHudson_AL for in his race for the US Senate in Alabama."

The endorsement post featured an image of Hudson carrying a firearm and highlighted his existing backing from gun rights organizations, including the National Association for Gun Rights and BamaCarry. When reached for comment, representatives for Hudson told 205focus.com that the campaign did not solicit this endorsement.

Background and Context

Rittenhouse gained national attention following a 2020 incident in Kenosha, Wisconsin, where he fatally shot two individuals and injured a third during a Black Lives Matter protest. Rittenhouse testified that he had traveled to the area to protect local businesses amidst unrest following a police-involved shooting of a Black man. He successfully argued that his actions were a matter of self-defense and was subsequently acquitted. Since that trial, he has shifted his focus toward work as a social media influencer and lobbyist for Second Amendment causes.

The Road to the Runoff

The endorsement arrives as Hudson prepares for a critical showdown in the Republican primary runoff. Hudson is currently set to face Rep. Barry Moore on June 16.