A reader in Harriman, N.Y. alerted us to a conservative independent group’s new TV ad urging the defeat of former pop musician and second-term Democrat John Hall. In the 1970s, Hall had several hits such as “Dance With Me” with the band Orleans before going on to represent New York’s 19th Congressional District.
Revere America, a group chaired by Republican and ex-New York Gov. George Pataki, says it is working to “repeal and replace” the health care reform law and part of that goal includes defeating Hall in the Nov. 2 election.
Revere America’s new 30-second ad begins with a narrator saying that Hall voted for “ObamaCare.” Calling the legislation a “bad plan,” the ad predicts it will hurt seniors, benefit government bureaucrats, and lead to longer waits in doctor’s offices. While many attack ads encourage viewers to call politicians and express outrage, this one ends with the direct instruction, “Defeat Congressman Hall.”
According to the group’s FEC filings, it spent just under $370,000 on the production and airing of the spot.
Hall’s campaign says the ad makes several false claims, including the assertion that health care costs will go up, “when, in fact, premium costs for most Americans are predicted to stay the same or decrease slightly from where they normally would be.” A statement by the congressman refuting the ad is posted on his campaign website.
Revere America did not respond to a request for comment.
Ad Title: “Defeat John Hall”
Paid for By: Revere America
Cost: $369,997
Disclaimer: Revere America paid for and is responsible for the content of this advertising. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. www.revereamerica.org