Committee of 70 contests candidate’s appearance in ad

Committee of Seventy, the election watchdog, wants the Philadelphia Ethics Board to take a look at a commercial Phillies fans will find familiar.

The commercial for Electricians Union Local 98 features their political director Bob Henon, who is also a candidate for City Council in the Sixth District. It does not mention his political aspirations. The Committee of Seventy’s Zach Stalberg said although it’s not illegal, it’s not right.

“I think it’s improper and a way to promote his candidacy and a way to get around the normal campaign finance rules,” Stalberg said.

Not so, said Local 98 head John Dougherty, who is often featured in these ads.

“Bobby has represented me on the St. Patrick’s day program. Bobby has handled our Mother’s Day publicity as well as our Father’s Day publicity,” said Dougherty.

Stalberg said there is nothing that can be done in the short run, but the Committee of Seventy will talk to the board of ethics to see if that kind of advertising can be regulated in the future.