Edwards Draws Criticism For Using Military Career In TV Ad

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — An Afghanistan war veteran speaking at a Veterans Day ceremony took aim at governor's candidate John Bel Edwards, who has made his military resume key to his election effort.

Mike McNaughton, a retired National Guard soldier, urged candidates in his Wednesday speech to "not use our veterans for promoting yourself" to get elected.

Edwards, a Democratic state representative who is in a tight runoff competition with Republican U.S. Sen. David Vitter, was in the audience. McNaughton, who is supporting Vitter, confirmed after his speech that his comments were directed at Edwards.

Edwards highlights his West Point degree and former career as an Army Ranger in his campaign. He's run an ad contrasting his military service with Vitter's 2007 prostitution scandal.

Edwards praised McNaughton's service — and defended his campaign approach.

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