The Republican National Committee’s first paid ads of 2014 hit vulnerable Democrats on Obamacare.
Specifically, the RNC is aiming to hit 12 Democrats up for re-election in 2014 in radio ads on what Republicans call the Lie of the Year.
“President Obama and [Senator/Representative] said if you like your insurance plan you can keep it under ObamaCare,” the voiceover in the ads said, unveiled Tuesday. “They lied to you. Big time. PolitiFact called that the ‘lie of the year.’ Millions will lose their insurance—and their doctors. 2014 is your chance to hold [Senator/Representative] accountable. Tell [him/her] this is one New Year’s resolution you’re sticking to.”
The ads are a continuation of a line of attack Republicans feel will be effective among not only the most vulnerable Democrats but even Democrats in relatively safe districts.
The ads target both House and Senate races: Sens. Mark Begich (AK), Mark Pryor (AR), Mark Udall (CO), Mary Landrieu (LA), Kay Hagan (NC), Jeanne Shaheen (NH), Jeff Merkley (OR) and Mark Warner (VA); Reps. Bruce Braley (IA), Gary Peters (MI), Tim Bishop (NY) and Nick Rahall (WV). Both Braley and Peters are running for Senate.
The ads are scheduled to run in Spanish, English, Korean and Vietnamese. The ads are running in about 40 markets around the country, according to the RNC.
In a press conference call touting the ads Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus said that Obamacare would continue to be the major issue Republicans use on the offensive throughout 2014.
“It is going to be the number one issue in 2014,” Priebus said.
Priebus added that these ads were meant to “set the stage” for 2014.
“I think it’s important for us to start setting the stage with these candidates in terms of what’s coming their way and what they’re going to have to contend with,” Priebus said.
