Ad Is Airing in Six Battleground States, Underscores Economic Stakes for Millions of American Families

WASHINGTON, DC -- SEIU announced today that it has begun a new, aggressive television ad campaign that drives home what is at stake economically for millions of American families in the upcoming presidential election.

SEIU is spending over $2 million to air the new ad in targeted markets in six battleground states - Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Mexico, Wisconsin and Iowa. The ad, titled "Family," features a mother talking about the strain of trying to provide for her family in an economy defined by higher costs, lower wages, and lost jobs.  The ad goes on to detail the stark differences between Barack Obama and John McCain when it comes to jobs and the economy.

"Unfortunately, this is the kind of story we're hearing from too many families in every corner of America," said SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Anna Burger. "It should be no surprise that there are people who would rather not talk about that, who would rather distract the voters than encourage them to focus on the issues.  But make no mistake - this election has enormous consequences for American families."

Earlier this month, the Labor Department announced that the unemployment rate jumped to 6.1 percent from 5.7 percent in July - the largest monthly surge in the jobless rate in five years.  But John McCain's campaign manager said that from their point of view, "This election is not about issues."  http://www.seiu.org/media/pressreleases.cfm?pr_id=1749

But, with 1,400 members who are working full-time in states across the country and an aggressive new ad campaign, SEIU is committed to making sure that this election is about the kitchen table issues impacting working families.

"Family" can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_ci5hTHl3A.  The transcript follows:

WIFE: We have three kids. I like to send them to school looking nice, you know?

Henry lost his job. What, 8 months ago?

I work two shifts usually, and we're still behind.

ANNCR (VO): John McCain said, "I know a lot less about economics... I still need to be educated."

No wonder he said we're better off than we were eight years ago...

It's time for change.

OBAMA CLIP: My tax cut would benefit middle class families three times as much as John McCain's.

ANNCR (VO): SEIU COPE is responsible for the content of this advertising.