We have all become accustomed to nasty political attack ads. As an old politico, I am usually unruffled by negative ads. If the ad is truthful, I accept it as an unfortunate, but established part of elections. But, when an ad is based on lies, innuendo or falsification, well that is another matter.

I was appalled when I saw a TV spot for Jim Hagedorn attacking Dan Feehan’s position on military spending. The ad selectively edited a statement made by Feehan to make it sound like Feehan was disparaging his fellow soldiers and veterans. I was at the debate where the comments were made, so I knew the video had been falsified. While describing military funding allocations, Feehan commented on the need for additional funding for the Air Force as compared to the Army or Navy. The edited comments in the GOP-funded ad made it sound like Feehan was telling soldiers not to complain. Ads like this are another way to lie.

Elections are central to our democracy. They deserve respect. As citizens, we cast our ballots to renew our government as “of the people, by the people.” Falsified ads like Hagedorn’s degrade our civic culture, insult each of us as voters and besmirch our nation. This may sound hyperbolic, but I am a true believer in democracy and the power of the people to direct our future. Hagedorn’s ad attacking Dan Feehan offends my sense of decency and honor.

I believe it is incumbent on Jim Hagedorn to publicly disavow this ad. If he does not, he is morally responsible for the lies it contains.

Debra Hogenson

Waseca