This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon, Dec. 13, 2011 - The National Taxpayers Union is the latest national conservative group to jump into Missouri with ads targeting U.S. Sen. Claire McCaskill, D-Mo. The group has begun airing a series of one-minute radio spots on most major stations around the state.
A spokeswoman said the initial buy is for one week but may be extended, with the undisclosed spending enough "to get noticed."
The ads are targeting the jobs-act proposal cosponsored by McCaskill and U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine. Among other things, the bill would increase taxes on the oil and gas industry -- which the ad makes clear it opposes.
Here's the text:
"Missouri's unemployment rate is still too high.
"And Washington's wasteful spending is only making things worse—racking up huge deficits without creating the new jobs so many families hoped for.
"After spending hundreds of billions of our tax dollars on a stimulus that failed to create the recovery we need, some in Congress want to spend even more money—and raise taxes to pay for it.
"Sen. Claire McCaskill supports increasing taxes on American energy.
"Not only would that make America less competitive around the world, it would also increase gas prices across Missouri—taking moremoney from your pocket.
"And with Washington's track record,does anyone believe that McCaskill's plan for more taxes and spending will actually create jobs?
"Call Sen. McCaskill: 314-367-1364. Tell her that Missouri needs jobs, not more taxes and spending—and higher gas prices."
