NM-01: New Heinrich Ad Uses Humor to Hit Bush-White on Energy

The new TV ad for our NM-01 Congressional candidate Martin Heinrich goes after the George Bush-Darren White energy policies that are "a drag on America's economy" and "holding America back." Instead of the anonymous voice-over that's commonly used to convey this kind of message, Heinrich appears in a humorous vignette where he cuts a runner loose who's being held back by having to pull a wagon holding a cigar-chomping curmudgeon who looks suspiciously like a shady oil tycoon.

In what seems like a nod to the recent Olympics, runners get set at the starting line wearing the flags of their nations. Are America's competitors wearing the flags of foreign oil producing nations? As the race gets into gear, the American runner is trailing. Martin to the rescue -- with his Apollo plan for energy independence -- and a pair of large shears. He cuts the line connecting the US runner to his burden and the American sprints to victory. The cigar chomping guy isn't pleased. When Martin says he's approved this message at the end of the ad, cigar guy says, "Yeah, but I don't!"

I think this is a welcome departure from run of the mill political ads and manages to communicate important criticisms of White's approach (and tout Heinrich's proactive approach) without rancor or anger. Darren White hasn't aired any ads yet in this contest, but judging from his campaign's recent low-life approach -- like absurdly trying to peg Heinrich as a "slick lobbyist" -- this funny ad should provide a nice contrast with White's mean-spirited messaging, whether on TV or off. (Update: White just released his first ad, a typical bio, saying he's "ready to lead" as an "independent voice." I won't put it up here because I think his campaign should be required to pay for every set of eyes it gets.)

I deem it a winner -- how about you? Let's help keep it on the air.

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