In a clear sign that Democrats hope to prolong the scandal for as long as they can, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee on Wednesday began airing a 60-second radio ad in the Albuquerque market criticizing Rep. Heather Wilson (R) for her role in the growing controversy over the firing of eight U.S. attorneys.

Wilson has admitted to phoning then-U.S. Attorney David Iglesias in October 2006 to inquire about the status of ongoing corruption investigations. Democrats have accused Wilson and Sen. Pete Domenici (R) — who made a similar call — of interfering in a federal investigation for partisan purposes.

The ad begins: “October 2006. A phone call is made. A scandal begins.”

The ad then replays testimony Iglesias recently gave to the Senate Judiciary Committee about his sacking.

“Serious questions remain about Heather Wilson and violation of Congressional ethics rules,” the ad continues, and concludes by urging the Congresswoman to “tell the full truth” about her role in the controversy.

The ad is expected to run for five days during drive times on an array of Albuquerque stations.

Wilson spokesman Enrique Carlos Knell told the Albuquerque Journal that Wilson’s call to Iglesias “was entirely appropriate and it’s a shame that national Democrats have launched a baseless partisan attack smearing her good name.”
— Josh Kurtz