Second TV ad from group backing Williams for Philly mayor

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The independent political committee funded by three wealthy suburban donors backing state Sen. Anthony Williams in the Philadelphia mayor’s race has produced its second ad of the campaign (see video above).

Like the first ad, this 30-second spot from the committee, American Cities, is a positive semi-biographical ad. While the first emphasized Williams’ family history and his father’s political career, the new one notes his roots in West Philadelphia, and refers more to his policy initiatives.

An announcer talks about Williams’ role in creating a gun violence task force, and says he’ll fight for high quality pre-kindergarten programs for all and expanded access to college.

The ad doesn’t mention school choice, the motivating issue of the three men funding the independent committee. The three principals of the Bala Cynwyd-based Susquehanna International Group are avid supporters of charter schools, tuition vouchers and tax credits to support private and parochial schools.

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As we reported Wednesday, American Cities’ TV ad buys now exceed $1 million, more than the media spending in by all other candidates  and committees in the mayor’s race combined.

The only candidate to advertise so far in the race is Williams, who’s spent around $190,000.

Two independent committees supporting former City Councilman Jim Kenney have together purchased about $500,000 worth of ads.

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