Both political parties are functioning in the 2006 House races as factories for attack ads, but the National Republican Campaign Committee’s work stands out this year for the sheer volume of assaults on the personal character of Democratic House challengers.
Stories by FactCheck.org
‘Daisy’ Redux
The Republican National Committee’s latest ad – a 2006 version of President Johnson’s famous 1964 “Daisy” commercial against Barry Goldwater – invokes the threat of a nuclear attack by al Qaeda.
Scaring Seniors on Social Security
Several ads being aired by Republican House candidates try to frighten both old and young away from supporting their Democratic opponents, who, the Republicans claim, will “cut benefits for seniors” and “raise Social Security taxes” on workers.
A ‘Drug Deal’ Gone Bad
The DCCC’s evidence that Florida Republican Clay Shaw took part in a “drug deal” when he voted for the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan is flimsy at best.
Midwestern Mythmaking in Iowa
Two ads in Iowa attempt to damage congressional candidates Bruce Braley and Mike Whalen by critiquing Braley’s stance on energy and by pointing out Whalen’s radical endorsements, but both are misleading.
Osama Bin Missing: Who’s Tried Hardest to Tackle Top Terrorist?
Former President Bill Clinton took on critics who have questioned why he didn’t do more during his time in the White House to eliminate Osama bin Laden.
A Half-Truth in the Florida 22nd
Clay Shaw attacks Democrat opponent Ron Klein for being a lobbyist at the state level, but Klein is only a registered lobbyist locally in Palm Beach County.
‘XXX’ Marks the Spot Where Campaign Ads Head South
In an ad that many viewers will find distasteful, Republican House candidate Vernon Robinson accuses Democratic Rep. Brad Miller of voting to spend money on silly-sounding sex studies.
False Claims About Body Armor
A new ad claims Republican Sen. George Allen of Virginia “voted against giving our troops” modern body armor. He did no such thing.
Phoning It In: Attack in Indiana by New, Well-Funded Conservative Group
Conservative group’s automated calls tar House candidate with voting to let unsavory material be sold to kids.