DSCC responds to Smith's ad

U.S. Sen. Gordon SmithThe Democratic Party of Oregon took issue with Republican U.S. Sen. Gordon Smith's first television ad, and they weren't the only ones. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee echoed the sentiments expressed by the DPO, saying that Oregonians should take Smith's "attempts to appear independent with a grain of salt."

"The only thing Gordon Smith ‘gets' is that he has to try to cloak his partisan record," DSCC spokesman Matthew Miller said. "Unfortunately for Smith, Oregonians' memories are longer than a 30 second TV spot. Gordon Smith will continue to try to paint himself as an independent, but his history of supporting George Bush's failed policies paints a different picture."

Smith has largely stayed on the sidelines, biding his time until the divisive Democratic primary between state House Speaker Jeff Merkley and party activist Steve Novick is decided. Therefore, although the seat is important to the DSCC, they have not had much impetus to jump into the race.

Smith, who still has more than $5 million on hand, will most likely provide the DSCC with many an opportunity to play its hand in Oregon.

EARLIER on PolitickerOR.com:

• Smith hits the airwaves toting ‘common ground for the common good'