WASHINGTON - The National Rifle Association has endorsed South Dakota Sen. Tim Johnson for the first time since he became a senator 12 years ago.

The gun rights group endorsed Johnson over his opponent, Republican Joel Dykstra, even though both men earned "A" records from the organization. The NRA did not endorse Johnson during his last re-election bid in 2002, instead supporting his opponent, John Thune.

An NRA spokesman said the group is pleased with Johnson's recent support of pro-gun bills in Congress. The group also has endorsed Democratic Rep. Stephanie Herseth Sandlin in her bid for re-election.

Also, the organization is running ads in eastern North Dakota criticizing Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on gun rights.