November 13, 2007
Posted: 12:05 PM ET

Tancredo's new ad depicts a terrorist attack on an American mall.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — Republican presidential candidate Tom Tancredo's new television ad depicting a terrorist attack on an American mall is raising eyebrows Tuesday, but the Colorado Republican's campaign says it doesn't cross the line.

"There's nothing over the top about this," Bay Buchanan, Tancredo's campaign manager told CNN. "It's quite accurate."

The 30-second ad, set to begin running on Iowa cable stations this week, depicts a hooded man walking into a crowded mall with a backpack. Over the sound of a ticking clock, the man abandons the backpack at a bench and an explosion is heard.

"There are consequences to open borders beyond the 20 million aliens who have come to take our jobs," the ad's narrator says. "Islamic terrorists now freely roam U.S. soil. Jihadists, who froth with hate, here to do what they have in London, Spain, and Russia."

Buchanan brushed aside critics who say the ad is playing the "fear card" and cited a recent FBI memo that said officials had received a tip Al Qaeda terrorists may be planning attacks on shopping malls in Los Angeles and Chicago during the upcoming holiday season. The FBI also said there is no indication the tip is credible.

"That's a common response of individuals who don't like your message," she said of those who have said the ad is designed to instill fear. "But the key is this: Is there a concern that this could happen to us at anytime? It has to be the case, the FBI just confirmed it."

"Washington doesn't have the guts, or the courage, or the will to do their job which is to secure their nation and that is why we face this threat," she continued. "Unless we speak about it, we can't expect the American people to put the proper pressure on Washington to do what they were elected to do."

Tancredo, who has placed the issue of illegal immigration front-and-center in his long-shot presidential bid, previously caused a stir in August when he said bombing holy Muslim sites would serve as a good "deterrent" to prevent Islamic fundamentalists from attacking the United States.

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Iowa • Tom Tancredo


Tom, ALBUQUERQUE, NM   November 13th, 2007 12:06 pm ET

Tom Tancredo is a non-factor in this race for the presidency. He is only swinging at the wind.

J.Crobuzon   November 13th, 2007 12:06 pm ET

Pat Buchanan's sister is backing Tancredo? Do they hold the campaign meetings down at the Losers' Club? Like Tancredo's campaign itself, there's no evidence that this is credible.

Anonymous, Las Vegas, NV   November 13th, 2007 12:08 pm ET

So, what is this guy's position on spending $10 billion a month on a war in Iraq?
It seems to me that anyone serious about defending and protecting our country would pledge in their campaigns to stop wasting our money in Iraq, in the name of "securing our nation", and instead pledge to spend that money on practical solutions.
Oh, and by the way, I am pretty sure that bombing holy sites of anyone's religion isn't a practical solution.
Sounds like Tancredo might have forgotten to take his meds…

Lance in Monrovia CA   November 13th, 2007 12:09 pm ET

These people, these guys like Tancredo are really, really pathetic.

They can find nothing positive to discuss. They have no new ideas and no honest thoughts, so they resort to fear, pure and simple. Fear that controls and fear that feeds their own greed.

They ignore global warming. They say the economy is vibrant even as it collapses around middle America's ears. They support a war of blood for oil and monger to further wars in other distant lands that will trade even more blood for their thirsty greed.

Shame on them. Shame on you Tom Tancredo. Shame on all of you that hide so proudly behind the American flag and behind a curtain of fear. You are commiting a very grievous sin. You sin against your country and yourself.

A world with you in charge is a black world indeed.

Oh Please! Atlanta, GA   November 13th, 2007 12:11 pm ET

Fear is what helped Bush get re-elected. Stupidity will elect Republicans if it can.

Ryan Theriot, Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 12:13 pm ET

All we had to do was lock airplane cockpit doors. Can we have our $2 TRILLION dollars back please?

Thomas, St. Petersburg, FL   November 13th, 2007 12:16 pm ET

Contrary to John Edwards' claim, terrorism is NOT a "bumper sticker".

Regardless of what that political genious Rosie O'Donnell may think, President Bush and his buddies did NOT cause the World Trade Center's building seven to "implode".

Rhetorical question: How come liberals squeal and scream "Freedom of Speech" for Sean Penn, Rosie O'Donnell, and other overpaid Hollywood brats whenever they condemn America as the root of all evil throughout the world, but do not extend it to Republicans and those who embrace conservative values ?

Brad, Omaha NE   November 13th, 2007 12:16 pm ET

when will americans learn that scare tactics only work to undermine our freedoms. if you allow this stuff to affect you emotionally then the terrorists have won.

and by terrorists i mean the republican party, the current administration and basically neo-cons in general.

and noone wants them to win… do they?

Greg, Nashville TN   November 13th, 2007 12:20 pm ET

Tancredo trying to scare people into paying attention to him.

Former US Army Officer, Kansas   November 13th, 2007 12:20 pm ET

As someone who has spend his entire life in the serve to the nation, I will state up front that this type of ad DOES NOT serve the nations interests.

Spreading fear and mistrust is not a political message, but a message that screams I have no message for you so let me scare you to death.

I am at a lose for words at such irresponsible theatics.

Jeannie, Sacramento, CA   November 13th, 2007 12:20 pm ET

I concur with Bay Buchanan. Why don't we talk about it openly and loudly? But if the congressman wanted to be truly honest about borders, he should've toned down the ad to relfect the current wave of tuberculosis and childhood diseases, domestic violence and child abuse attributed to cultural codes, all brought to the US by the illegal influx from the southern borders and on record at every Health and Human Services agency in every state. Let's not also forget the number of homicides committed by these illegal aliens. ILLEGALS GO HOME!

RAINIE FT MYERS, FL   November 13th, 2007 12:22 pm ET

YEP…MORE FEAR POLITICS..ANYTHING TO SAY ABOUT OUR COUNTRY'S ISSUES?? YOU KNOW, HEALTH CARE, SOCIAL SECURITY, WATER, BRIDGES, EDUCATION, ENVIRONMENT, JOBS…..

Jody Crockett, St. Louis, Missouri   November 13th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

It doesn't matter if one is a Republican or Democrat, Mr. Tancredo is right about the possibility of that kind of terrorism on our soil from the muslim extremist and we should all be concerned about it. It isn't the fear card. It is the reality card.

Glenn, Chesterton In   November 13th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

Why do I have a feeling of DeJaVu? Barry Goldwarter 1964? The infamous "Daisy" ad? Its the same thing all over again. Take the latest fear (in this case terrorism) and use it.

christian, selden, ny   November 13th, 2007 12:32 pm ET

the ad is something that could quite possibly happen….the only problem is there will be pretty much no way to stop it. especially not by electing a republican! if the republican president completely took our focus off of the terrorists by basically leaving afghanistan and attacked a secular government that definetely would not allow a rogue terrorist orginization to operate in his country especially with a dicatators paranoia, then what makes you think the republicans are so tough on terror!?!? the counter terrorism and intelligence community of this country will operate regardless of who is in power stop letting the republicans make you think they are the ones holding the terror groups at bay. the democrats arent going to cut off the counter terrorism units there is going to be nothing changed in the efforts our agents are doing. republicans and democrats are politicians the main difference is the republicans are trying to take credit for the fight on terror when they have nothing to do with it!

Tristan, Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 12:34 pm ET

This is the current state of politics and political dialogue in our country — we are told that by reporting it received a tip with no credibility that the "FBI has just confirmed" this sort of fear-mongering message. And, even more worrisome, that if the FBI confirms something, "it has to be the case." No wonder citizens have such a hard time sorting out the facts and making informed choices at election time.

dan, Denver, CO   November 13th, 2007 12:37 pm ET

Tom Tancredo is an utter embarrasment for our great state of CO. I had nothing to do with electing him but still apologize on my state's behalf for this clown. He thinks the earth is flat and that we used to hang out with dinosaurs so you have to forgive his sheer ignorance.

Kristy, St. Louis, Missouri   November 13th, 2007 12:37 pm ET

This is irresponsible and just bad politics! Trumping up fears at any time is bad but now he is sabotaging the econemy and the sales for retailers in malls. Making people so terrified that the never leave their homes is not the answer, in fact it is just what their supposed terrorists would want. And might I add that bombing of Holy sites is idiotic, cruel and insensitive, not only for Muslims but for all religions.

Paul C. Palmetto Bay, FL   November 13th, 2007 12:41 pm ET

When all else fails bring out the tried and true fear card. It worked very well for Bush.
Our homegrown nuts and criminals have killed and caused more damage than Al Qaeda and we accept that but we live in trembling fear that the terrorist will strike again so we will vote for anyone who promises to keep us safe.

roger, conway sc   November 13th, 2007 12:41 pm ET

YEP-MORE FEAR POLITICS by Rainie Ft Myers FL–I could not have said it better my self…

Adrienne Malik Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 12:45 pm ET

We do not need another leader who will continue to poison this country with prejudice and ignorance. We need a leader who can guide our country towards peace with the other nations of the world; not one who will continue to divide us against other countries by preying on our fears. We have had eight years of scare tactics by a government that promotes fighting violence with hate and more violence. The results of that kind of "diplomacy" speak for themselves. It is time for a change from the kind of government promoted by men like Tancredo.

TK, Carol Stream, IL   November 13th, 2007 12:46 pm ET

The ad is certainly a blatant attempt to inspire fear and is quite similar to the old criminal revolving door spot run during the Dukakis campaign years ago. The only purpose it serves for me is to insure that I do not vote for Tancredo

Truth, USA   November 13th, 2007 12:46 pm ET

Kind of like Gore fear-mongering us into buying carbon credits…

Andrew Phillips   November 13th, 2007 12:47 pm ET

Here we go again lets all be afraid I think that Byrnes put it quite well "Too many people are thinking of security instead of opportunity. They seem more afraid of life than death."
- James F. Byrnes

Bee A. Fraid, Boogetyville, MD   November 13th, 2007 12:47 pm ET

It IS playing the "fear card" when your campaign is centered on scaring people into voting for you. Good intelligence catches the bad guys, not bombs in Baghdad, not the "rainbow of doom", and certainly not hot air spewing, fear mongering politicians. That my friend, IS reality.

Josh, Lafayette, IN   November 13th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

People who care about poltics will compare this to the daisy ad and call it out for BS.

Ignorant rednecks who vote will be happy to find out they have someone who will represent their hate of brown people.

Greg Diamond Jr. Liverpool, NY   November 13th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

Another Republican capitalizing on fear for political gain. I'm sure there is a reader out there rolling his eyes, but consider the following logic. Hey, Tom — try avoiding the acceptance of support and caving to the lobbying clout of American and foreign corporations that enter the Middle East with the intent to pursue oil and other natural resoirces, arms deals and insider defense contracting at the cost of reducing local populations to life in poverty by taking away the objects of their livelihoods. These people attack us because they perceive us to be a threat to indigenous political and economic autonomy. This is not the Middle Ages, your stockholders are not white knights bringing local prosperity and no Jesus is coming — get real with your 'ye olde worlde' policies and join the rest of the pragmatic public.

John Cropp, Athens, Ga   November 13th, 2007 12:52 pm ET

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself."

How have we forgotten?

Matt Shreveport, LA   November 13th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

Seriously, how nutty can you get? It's a possibility but it's not IMMINENT.

Raymond, El Paso TX   November 13th, 2007 12:54 pm ET

What's everybody so worried about? We're fighting them over there so we don't have to fight them over here …REMEMBER?

Antonio, Tempe AZ   November 13th, 2007 12:54 pm ET

More US citizens died of septicemia in 2004 than have been killed by terrorists since we won our freedom from the British.

Why are politicians obsessed with terrorism to the point that we are ignoring the causes of actual death in our country?

David Otteson California   November 13th, 2007 12:57 pm ET

It is the same fear tactic that the G.O.P.has used so many times.Find an enemy, scare your base. Immagrants steal your job while killing your children.It's time for superman. It's such Bull!

Bill Hinman, Gardiner, Ore.   November 13th, 2007 12:59 pm ET

What kind of a scumbag would run an ad like that? Why do the republican candidates play the fear factor all the time. It's bad enough that Bush has used that tactic for the last six years. America deserves more from our political leaders.

Joe, Reno, NV   November 13th, 2007 1:01 pm ET

You have got to be kidding me… get people to do something by scaring them? sounds like this candidate trained in afganistan along with osama bin laden.

Mary, Beaver, PA   November 13th, 2007 1:01 pm ET

The US is worried about terrorists entering the country? That must be news to the idiots who want to give amnesty to the illegals who are already here.

Patrick,Cincinnati,OH   November 13th, 2007 1:04 pm ET

I support Tancredos efforts in support of jobs for Americans but I don't think he needs to play the fear card. We all realize that where terrorism is concerned anything is possible. The terrorism could even be homegrown.

I wish he would spend more time on the jobs issue solely… fighting against H1-B and foreign worker visas.

Joel, SI, NY   November 13th, 2007 1:04 pm ET

Can someone remind Tancredo that there is a border to the North of us through which potential terrorists can come as well. All he talks about is a border between the US and Mexico.

DLPoff, Roanoke VA   November 13th, 2007 1:06 pm ET

Well, Mr. Tancredo's idea of bombing Islamic holy sites sounds just peachy to me. By all means, let's lower ourselves even more to the terrorists' level. Let's show the world what a hateful, spiteful people we can be. Let's prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that everything our critics have said about us are true.

Terrorism is real. There is no denying that, but spouting bigoted trash like bombing another faith's holy sites as a deterrent for attacking us is more than stupid. It is frightening and dangerous.

SF, Littleton CO   November 13th, 2007 1:07 pm ET

It doesn't matter if one is a Republican or Democrat, Mr. Tancredo is a one-issue politician, who will happily use fear to furhter his cause. As one of his unfortunate constituents, I can say from first-hand knowledge that he doesnt even know much about the problems of his ownconstituency, never mind the country. All he ever does is raise the illegal immigrant issue.
Ms Crockett - I bet you believe DeLay got railroaded and Rove was just mis-understood !!!

P. Jones, Thurmont, MD   November 13th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

Sounds like Barry Goldwater, circa 1964. Good to know that scare tactics continue to be in high demand by Republicans.

Erik, Des Moines, IA   November 13th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

This ad is fear-mongering of the worst kind. Although illegal immigration is a problem (one which Mr. Tancredo has hyped far beyond its true significance), there are many other issues of greater importance to the future of this country which he has done little, if nothing, to address in his rhetoric. I have yet to hear him say anything of substance about education, health care or improving our economy. Mr. Tancredo is what he is - a one issue candidate lacking in depth and substance.

Don, Denver CO   November 13th, 2007 1:15 pm ET

Maybe the reason why this ad is so disturbing to some is because it can very well become reality. Just this past week the FBI issued a warning regarding shopping malls. Think about it, how many of you on 9/11 were in complte shock and disbelief? Thinking it was a movie because NOTHING like that has ever happened in the US. What makes this scenerio any more different? Do you all honestly think it is only "good-hardworking people" coming through our porous borders? If so, then you really naive. Our borders should be protected and our immigration laws should be enforced. Supporting Corporate Americas agenda for cheap uninsured labor has the potential to be a deadly cost for American citizens.

Steve, Bloomington IN   November 13th, 2007 1:22 pm ET

Well, this is certainly no more "over the top" than the idea that Tancredo is electable.

Brandon, NYC, NY   November 13th, 2007 1:23 pm ET

I find this type of ad completely insensitive and wholly inappropriate. It's this brand of sensatonalism that continues to tarnish our global reputation. The comments about illegal immigrants,to me, are borderline racist. It's unfortunate that we, the United States, are so physically isolated from the rest of the world. If we had the habit of interacting with neighboring countries (such as Western European nations do) more often, I think we'd have a broader foreign policy and a much more realistic and tolerant way to address our immigration issues. Fear mongering is not the way to formulate or win support for effective plans.

Wanted: New America   November 13th, 2007 1:23 pm ET

Funny, he mentions ISLAMIC Terrorists….Not Redneck terrorists, not white terrorists, not black, just ISLAMIC. So ridiculous… I think The OK City bombers were protestant. We're headed for an implosion of our own if we elect more people like Bush and his crooked cronies.

We're not at war with Islam people, we're at war with people who clearly don't want us in their country, who HAPPEN to be ISLAMIC. We WONDER why people hate the US - Arrogant as we are.

Think about this….if we had a civil war going on, do you REALLY, TRULY in your HEART OF HEARTS think ANY country would come in and help us at all. No.

Time to go focus on AMERICA for a while. Let them blow themselves up over there. We're done being Earth's (crooked) policeman.

That said, pray for the safety of the troops who have been sent over there. Its not their fault.

Ron, Elk, PA   November 13th, 2007 1:26 pm ET

I'm glad he used the fear tactic, now we know he is using fear to get votes. Do we want a candidate that will stoop to cheap tricks to get what he wants?

Bubba, Swainsboro GA   November 13th, 2007 1:28 pm ET

Thomas, I'm actually more of a moderate than a liberal, but I'll take a shot at it. Your rhetorical question was how come liberals defend liberals who condemn America as the root of all evil throughout the world, but don't defend Republicans who condemn America as the root of all evil throughout the world? Like when Baying Buchanan said "Washington doesn't have the guts, or the courage, or the will to do their job?" Aw, she can have all the free hate speech she wants. See, even the Buchanan Dynasty knows Bush is a cowardly nutjob.

Anonymous   November 13th, 2007 1:35 pm ET

Its to sad that someone as closed minded as Tancredo ever reached a high position in his life. People like that all around the world are the ones that are causing trouble. If we didnt have such hateful people, life would be much better. People such as Tancredo believe that they should only exist, he's comparable with Osama Bin Laden. I guess its better to ignore people like that.

Flagship, Hartford, CT   November 13th, 2007 1:35 pm ET

I agree "Shame on all of you that hide so proudly behind the American flag and behind a curtain of fear. You are commiting a very grievous sin. You sin against your country and yourself."

Val Davydov, Agawam, MA   November 13th, 2007 1:36 pm ET

Sorry, I am a Republican and I truly think Tancredo's ad is way over the top. We shouldn't feel forced to vote for someone out of fear that we may get attacked. I do feel however that the Republican president in the White House would keep us safer then the Democratic president.

DW, anytown, anystate   November 13th, 2007 1:37 pm ET

Last time I checked, Christian extremist have bombed this country more than the Islamic variety…..

ronnie - knoxville, tn   November 13th, 2007 1:44 pm ET

liberals say Bush and the Republicans are "fear mongering" , but when there's an actual terrorist attack, they say "you knew and you didn't warn us.

That's hypocritical.

demwit   November 13th, 2007 1:45 pm ET

Sorry, hollywood says there is no war on terror and who knows more about terror than them??

DE   November 13th, 2007 1:46 pm ET

The comment about "taking our jobs", that really annoys me, especially since jobs are SENT overseas now. And yes, some have been sent to Muslim countries.

Jim, Illinois   November 13th, 2007 1:47 pm ET

We will have another attack on US soil and there isn't anything a Democrat nor Republican can do. With our borders being so open, I'm sure there are terrorists already here. But, I am glad Saddam is gone. I feel much safer, don't you?

Steve Elliott Columbia, SC   November 13th, 2007 1:48 pm ET

I agree with the candidate. We must face the possibility of something like this happening. Someone should read the Tom Clancey novel written a few years ago with terrorist attacks on shopping malls by individuals who infiltrated our border from Mexico………..

Congress, secure our borders.

George, Pittsburgh, PA   November 13th, 2007 1:48 pm ET

We need another FDR to remind us that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself. That's going to have to be one of the Democrats as the GOP is nothing but a bunch of fear-mongering lunatics, led by the duplicious Mr. Guiliani.

Raymond, El Paso TX   November 13th, 2007 1:56 pm ET

Jeannie, Sacramento, CA WROTE: ~ "I concur with Bay Buchanan. Why don't we talk about it openly and loudly? But if the congressman wanted to be truly honest about borders, he should've toned down the ad to relfect the current wave of tuberculosis and childhood diseases, domestic violence and child abuse attributed to cultural codes, all brought to the US by the illegal influx from the southern borders and on record at every Health and Human Services agency in every state. Let's not also forget the number of homicides committed by these illegal aliens. ILLEGALS GO HOME!"

Not that I'm for illegal immigration either but WOW! No transparency in your comments. I suppose you also don't eat meat, chicken, fish, fruits, vegetables, certainly don't go out to eat, wear only American-made clothes and had your house fully fumigated before you moved in? …you know, with so much filth, diseases and all.

QMAX Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 2:01 pm ET

Tancredo is using his common sense, it is naive to believe that attacks won't happen simply because they haven't happen. This was the same logic used by the CIA and FBI and we got 9/11. Of course most leftists who post on this board seem to be ignorant of this glaring fact.

Buddy, Kansas City, Missouri   November 13th, 2007 2:03 pm ET

Tancredo is obviously trying to get his name in the spotlight to round up some votes. He has no chance and he and his ridiculous ads should be ignored.

Steve, Lyons, CO   November 13th, 2007 2:04 pm ET

Tancredo, brainless nutcase.

Ryan Theriot, Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 2:05 pm ET

Actually the 9/11 truth movement is lead by the victims' families. Visit http://www.911pressfortruth.com. This is a site owned by the victims families so that they can get their message out. The attacks were an inside job, and everyone who seeks the truth finds it. There are 3 guys working in the Rockefeller Center for the major news networks that determine everything you hear about that day. Is it so hard to believe in corruption?

christian, selden, ny   November 13th, 2007 2:06 pm ET

Jody Crockett, St. Louis, Missouri

how is it a reality card for you? there was a terrorist attack in 2001. pearl harbor was attacked during world war 2 there isnt exactly a huge amount of attacks on american soil and it doesnt exactly take a genious to crash a plane into a building! and i dont believe we need to take money from things like education labor and health to fund our protection. countries in europe, asia and africa have been dealing with genocide, terrorism and war that makes 9/11 look like a good day, but we act like babies and put all of our money into protecting us from something that has happened twice in the last 15 years!! let me tell you we will have another terrorist attack its almost impossible to avoid…

Locke, The World   November 13th, 2007 2:07 pm ET

The rhetoric applied in this situation, avoiding of whom made the statement, and in its place what is contained demonstrates a legitimate threat.

Wars escelate, empirically, and one utilizing a nuclear arsenal will surely follow suit, neither of which current infrastructure can handle.

Stopping terrorist attacks-Legitimate or not are the</i. imperative of US national security.

As for the erroneous discussion of Global climate change and a collapsing economy.

First, Global climate change or Global Warming is wholly unproven, given that scientists would need documentation dating back to Earth's atmospheric formation to verify it, until then, stop the erroneous chatter.

Second, the economy is fine, as shown by our managing the housing burst, government institutions adjusted interest rates to balance the economy. Talks of a coming recession are false, given that it should have happened after the bubble burst, but it didn't, any possible future recessions will be balanced in the same manner.

So, to those foolish pontificators-Learn yourself before you speak.

Shawn, New York, NY   November 13th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

This is a good way for the GOP to get out the "boogeyman vote". To get those who are easily scared by whatever the media puts out, from terrorism to MRSA. These people will do anything to incite fear among Americans, because it's the only thing that keeps them in power now. The republican party has truly lost its way from the small government libertarian views of Barry Goldwater, and is now corrupted by fat cats who hide behind the bible to get things done.

ED orlando fl   November 13th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

I notice that Tancedo did not mentionIdaho or minneapolis airport where right wing WIDE STANCE politicians go for protection. I never realized there were so many right wing KOOKS until this group of presidential Prospects had the gall to run. WE ARE IN TROUBLE IF ANY OF THIS GROUP GETS ELECTED.I have seen a wierd bunch in my 78 yrs .

Kelly Joyner, Warner Robins, GA   November 13th, 2007 2:08 pm ET

The problem with this kind of ad is not just that it instills fear, (kind of like the threat of hell being the reason for becoming a Christian, rather than you agree with the teachings of Christ), but it targets just immigrants. Who are the ones that have bombed clinics, the Olympic Park in Atlanta, and the federal building in Oklahoma? Americans, home grown terrorists. We cannot begin to profile peoples in the hopes of being "safe." There are no guarantees in this world, except death and it is inevitable no matter who is elected.

Art, Port Tobacco, MD   November 13th, 2007 2:09 pm ET

So much for political correctness.

Melissa--Nashville, TN   November 13th, 2007 2:10 pm ET

I feel ill just thinking about what terrorists are capable of doing, and I would rather not hear about it and just live in the bubble I was born into. But what I want and what is bound to happen are two different things. Our country is being destroyed from the inside and no one is Washington cares to do anything about. We're in pre-9/11 days again now and we act as if 9/11 never happened. Our economy is hurting and an attack from within would be what destroys us and the terrorists know this. Thanks for going the road less traveled on this ad. Please show this to this whole country. We need to hear this. Washington, if you don't help get the word out and DO SOMETHING blood will be on your hands.

john, Fremont, CA   November 13th, 2007 2:11 pm ET

We live in fear thanks to the administration. Keep people in fear and you can control them. They will let you take their rights away. If they hesitate, Then just dangle the "fear" ticket in front of their faces once more, that should do it.

It's really pathetic that politicians have to scare people into voting for them.

AJ, IL   November 13th, 2007 2:14 pm ET

Why is Tom Tancredo still in the race? Those that put money into his camp are truly wasting their money. Stop with the politics of fear! America gets it. There Islamic extremists in the world out to harm the US. That's old news. What are we doing (or planning to do) to make us more secure? What is your agenda to make us more safe?

ramez,san pablo CA   November 13th, 2007 2:16 pm ET

take what Jobs????
working at a burger place for $6/hour,or washing dishes at $7/hour…WE the people need to wake up and speak out aginst those ads and thier sponser…..be proud that you and I are the country that every body in this world want to come and build alife for thier families and them self..

ronnie, palm desert CA   November 13th, 2007 2:17 pm ET

Tancredo is a scary & creepy guy .. haven't we had enough of all the fear mongering the repubs have thrown at us since 9/11? I can't wait until the USA is delivered from the incompetent and morally bankrupt bush admin, but who knew there's actually someone even scarier out there? Tancredo needs to slither back to & stay in his own personal little hate-filled cave.

Bob, Milwaukee WI   November 13th, 2007 2:18 pm ET

Liberals and alike need to wake up. The threat is real… Just ask the families that lost loved ones on 911.

Sensible Joe, Gainesville, FL   November 13th, 2007 2:19 pm ET

It's ironic that the Republicans would play the "fear card" over 20 million illegal aliens, insecure borders and lax immigration policing when they've been in power for six years after 9/11 and did nothing to fix any of those problems. In fact, the Bush administration undercut and underfunded efforts to solve these breaches in national security. What hypocrisy!

Robert Leavitt Las Vegas, Nevada   November 13th, 2007 2:20 pm ET

Yes…let all of US pretend that such things never happen. Please don your tinfoil hats and chant "It will never happen…It will never happen…"

Sue, MD   November 13th, 2007 2:22 pm ET

Is it my imagination or are the media and our politicians deliberately trying to keep the American public in a constant state of paranoia? This is a well-known tactic among cult leaders - get your followers to a point where they're constantly in fear of "them against us," and your followers will be easier to control.

karen nj   November 13th, 2007 2:23 pm ET

isn't this the same as Hillary or one of the populist candidates using a fake welfare recipient talking about making ends meet" , in trying to get voters to have sympathy for people on welfare rolls?

Jim Ward, Selden, NY   November 13th, 2007 2:24 pm ET

I wish democrats were not so weak on national security and would stop saying its the "fear card" that republican candidates are playing. If democrats were not stuck back in the 90's and think this is a safe world, they would see that the terrorist threat portrayed in Tancredo's ad is a legitimate one. So why dont we all realize its 2007 and remember what happened on Sept. 11, 2001 and unite as a country to prevent anything like that from happening again?

Mark Walton, Rochester NY   November 13th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

Let's think about what a terrorist is — a terrorist is someone that attacks innocent people in the hope of effecting political change through fear. That is, after all, why they are called "terrorists".

It follows from this that the worst possible response to terrorism is to give them what they want — fear. This is why the Bush administration and the republican party's response to terrorism has been wrong headed and disastrous from the very beginning. All of these terror alerts, the FBI warnings, the Patriot Act, and political TV ads like this one simply give the enemy what they want. Fear. Terrorists are trying their best to frighten the American people and the Republicans seem to be doing everything in their power to help them do it.

Robert, Shelton, CT   November 13th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

This is disgraceful..shame on Tancredo for using scare tactics, he is a loser, he should accept it.

therealist   November 13th, 2007 2:28 pm ET

We all need to take a good look at that picture, remember it and be aware this holiday season. It could save your life..

Robert, Austin Texas   November 13th, 2007 2:29 pm ET

I wonder how long it will take for the Council on American-Islamic Relations and other Islamic apologists to issue their standard claim of "Islamophobia" in reference to this commercial? I am sure they will then try to convince us that "Islam is a religion of peace" and "Islam forbids the killing of innocents" despite all evidence to the contrary.

I don't know who I will vote for but I am glad some candidates are not afraid to say Islam and terrorists in the same sentence.

Marty, Delaware   November 13th, 2007 2:30 pm ET

Sure, terrorists could attack our malls, but I don't want to live in a police state. "Those who sacrafice liberty for security shall have neither". Those words are no less true today then two hundred years ago.

christian   November 13th, 2007 2:32 pm ET

Locke, The World

right right…you MUST be smart. the funny thing about the whole global warming thing is the people who are yelling THERE IS NO PROOF!! are the same people that believe the bible was written by god out of FAITH…..its so amazing

DJ, Los Angeles, CA   November 13th, 2007 2:36 pm ET

Sad to see the GOP stoop to such lows and be such a 1-trick pony. Exploit fear to get votes.

Nathan, Chicago, IL   November 13th, 2007 2:37 pm ET

What's the formula for turning moderate Muslims into radicals and 1st generation radical Muslims into 2nd and 3rd gernation ones? Tell them we'll bomb their most holy of religious shrines. Congratulations on fail, Mr. Tancredo. You have so completely reinforced the negative stereotypes Americans have abroad of intolerance and ignorance, that I would ask that you refrain from making statements to the media - period.

It will help in our fight for freedom more than anything your limited understanding of the world around us could possibly contribute.

Jerry Gertiser   November 13th, 2007 2:49 pm ET

18 thousand die in this country each year due to inadequate health care. 35 thousand die each year due to influenza. How many died by terrorist this year?

Brittany D. Houston, Tx   November 13th, 2007 2:51 pm ET

Ignore the fact that there are armed burglaries, kidnappings, drive-by shootings, school shootings and murders that happen more often in this country than they should … the real threat is looming in the shadows.

By definition terrorism is, "The unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence by a person or an organized group against people or property WITH THE INTENTION OF INTIMIDATING OR COERCING SOCIETIES OR GOVERNMENTS, often for ideological or political reasons".

Way to help their cause by advocating that this nation should live in fear.

Didn't someone once say, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself"?

Alan, San Angelo Texas   November 13th, 2007 2:58 pm ET

Listening to Bay Buchanan, Tom Tancredo should get the public service announcement rate for his terrorist attack in a mall ad. Now who's up for shopping? Consumer spending drives 2/3 of the U.S. economy. I can hear George Bush and Hank Paulson's jaw hitting the floor.

PW, Atlanta, GA   November 13th, 2007 3:00 pm ET

What scares me more than anything else is that most people are paying more attention to global warming, baseball and Britney Spears than facing the fact that we are facing biggest threat to our civilization since WWII.
Open borders and terrorism will guarantee our demise and to bury one's head in the sand and pretend that all is well does not mean the problem goes away.
The terrorists can win IF WE LET THEM, and so far, all the liberal pacifists and ignorami amongst us, by refusing to face the music are LETTING THEM WIN.

Wendy, Atlanta, Georgia   November 13th, 2007 3:00 pm ET

Hello, immigrants aren't taking anyone's jobs. In my opinion they do the jobs natural born citizens have become too good to do. Anyone in this country who truly wants to work can find a job. As far as the war on terror, this is a war to which there is no end. And I concur, what about domestic terrorism? What good does locking ourselves away from the rest of the world do? Too many people have died for my freedom. I'm not going to stop shopping at malls or hide behind locked doors. If we start living in fear then the terrorists win. Thank you to all those who fight for Tancredo's right to air such a narrow minded ad.

Matt, Reading PA   November 13th, 2007 3:01 pm ET

"shame on you".. everyone uses this phrase and i hate it! it sounds like something my grandmother would say to me when I was a kid.. i dont see anything wrong with tancredo's ad.. yes education, health care, etc are important, but no one can even think to enjoy them if they die from a terrorist attack! he is just reminding people of the importantcy and urgency of closing up the borders..

Republican '08

Ryan, New York, NY   November 13th, 2007 3:12 pm ET

I'm not even going to get into how despicable I find this ad, even if it were aired anywhere, but IOWA?????

While I realize it's one of the first primary states, will someone please explain to me how these red states in the middle of the country, most with cities that aren't worth attacking due to low population/population densities, are the ones most in fear of terrorism? Meanwhile, you have a higher percentage of people in New York, DC, LA and other major US metropolises where the actual fear of terror attacks might be warranted fighting for civil liberties that our red state brethren would like to give away for protection.

If I were bin Laden, I'd be sitting back waiting for this country to crumble on its own. With one terror attack on 9/11 and a few follow up tapes, the way he made this country discard its core values, increase its spending to unprecedented levels, and ruin our ties with half of the Arab world that at one time after 9/11 sympathized with us makes it pretty much mission accomplished for Al-Qaeda. What would be the need for follow-ups and more suicides? It's not the death count, it's the effect on the living that matters, and I'd say we couldn't be affected much more.

Former US Army Officer, Kansas   November 13th, 2007 3:12 pm ET

Terrorists win not by inflicting casulties, but by forcing change in ones behavior. The purpose of acts of terror is to instill fear and through that fear, modify behavior.

If you stay inside, they win, if you change your travel plans the win, if you take away civil liberties they win, if you deny consitutional rights they win. If you set aside what you stand for and what you know is the right thing to do because of them, they win.

Should one not be, not concerned, be concerned, but not overly so. Do not permit fear to rule your life. You are not the target. How does one protect him or herself, by being aware of ones surroundings, not afraid, not fearful of the person standing next to you, just by being aware of your surroundings. You see something out of the ordinary, report it. One can protect ones self from being a target by not falling into predictable patterns, but continue to do what you would normally do. Go to the game, go shopping, go to grandmas for thanksgiving.

What do terrorist sell, they sell fear, that is their product. Don't help them by promoting fear, it does not do the nation good. Nor does this commercial.

Terrorist and illegals, are two different issues. If you look those terrosits that entered this nation did so legally. While we need to tighten controls on illegals, this shall not be accomplished until such time that buisnesses stop hiring undocuemented workers.

JC, OC, FL   November 13th, 2007 3:16 pm ET

The only terrorists are the CIA, FBI, CFR, Dept of Homeland Security, etc., and the Bilderberg group. The world is waking up to this un-pleasant truth.

Mike, Albany NY   November 13th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

"Liberals and alike need to wake up. The threat is real… Just ask the families that lost loved ones on 911."

Bush never realized the threat prior to 911 and he fails to understand the problem now. Iraq has nothing to do with terrorism and is making the situation worse. I wish Republicans would wake up and realize their party has been taken over by fascists who disguise themselves as patriots. The illigal immigrants I know are some of the hardest working peple I know and do jobs that are above most others standards. This country was built on the backs of immigrants and if we don't have that resource we are lost. Maintain border security but don't believe the fascist rhetoric that immigrants are the problem.

Ian, OKC, OK   November 13th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Ummm, weren't the people responsible for the bombings in London and Spain, you know, citizens? So how does invoking those events make sense in a debate about illegal immigration?

DAVID A BELANGER,VETERAN US ARMY   November 13th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

"Right now, we have a government that is barely hanging on, controlling a vast stash of nuclear weapons," Trento told CBS News. "American may be facing nuclear terrorism if the Pakistani government doesn"t hang on."

Trento and Armstrong recently sat down with CBS News, discussing why we should be concerned about ongoing nuclear proliferation from members of Khan''s former network and how a "fatal error" in 2000 changed the course of nuclear history forever.

"We heard about this amazingly brave, British customs inspector who had run up against the network," Trento said. "As he makes his discoveries and gets closer and closer to AQ Khan, he''s pulled off the case, and told to stop it, leave it alone."

That''s when it became clear, says Trento, that the intelligence services of Britain and the U.S. were actually protecting members of the AQ Khan network in what Trento calls "a cover-up." The result: proliferation continued for four more crucial years, allowing North Korea and Iran to move forward with their WMD programs. That''s a gap, according to Trento, that could never be recovered.

OK AMERICA NOW ARE YOU READY FOR A REVOLUTION…..STOP SHUTTING YOUR EYES TO THE TRUTH OF THIS ADMINASTRATIONS LIES ON TOP OF LIES

Santosh   November 13th, 2007 3:22 pm ET

Tancredo needs to be thrown out of the Republican party. He just doesn't share any of its values.He's part of the reason the President's guest-worker program got derailed. A nationalist and protectionist like him does not reflect the neo-conservative values of the President, who's done so much to bring the spread of Democracy, fighting terrorism globalization and an open-door policy that enriches America to the forefront.

Don Watson   November 13th, 2007 3:22 pm ET

I will go with what FDR said the only thing we have to feer is feer itself.

christopher frierson new orleans la   November 13th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

While i do not agree with the way that Tancredo is using the fear of terrorism, we as a nation have to accept the fact that, regardless of reason, a substantial portion of the world views us as the enemy. I agree that we do need a different foreign policy, but not one of retreat, nor of conquest. we need to find the happy medium of peace through strength. I wish Colin Powell would run for pres.

Don Watson... Jacksonville, Fl   November 13th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

I will go with FDR, The only thing we have to fear is Fear itself

Sophie, Baton Rouge, Louisiana   November 13th, 2007 3:28 pm ET

Hello, immigrants aren't taking anyone's jobs. In my opinion they do the jobs natural born citizens have become too good to do. Anyone in this country who truly wants to work can find a job.
Wendy, I hate to burst your bubble but that is entirely false. I know plenty of people with great worth ethics who struggle to find a job that can pay them enough to keep them above the poverty line. Jobs that you talking about only pay minimum wage which, by the way, cannot cover the cost of living anywhere. Immigrants have time and again taken jobs all over this country. They're given these jobs because they are willing to work for less money. Then they bunk up in 1 bedroom apartments and all pay a single persons rent. It's not fair to our citizens that they can't have the very same job and be paid fairly for it. Sorry…that's just the facts.

Martin, Wilmington, Delaware   November 13th, 2007 3:41 pm ET

This Ad is in poor taste. Ads of this kind have been around for many years and I am sure they will continue for many years to come.

Some of those who see this ad will see it as the usual political manipulation that occurs in most elections.

Others will see it meaningful.

Terrorism is nothing new in this world. It's been going on for thousands of years. The U.S. has been lucky that it has not been the victim of much terrorism and I hope it stays that way.

We should remember not to be terrorists ourselves. When our leaders threaten to attack other countries, we become the terrorists.

Joe, Boston, MA   November 13th, 2007 3:56 pm ET

Hey Matt from Reading, PA,

If he's so concerned about closing up the borders then why wasn't this an urgency after 9/11 when the Republicans were in control for the majority of the Bush Administration?

Just face it, they did NOTHING because they used this tactic to their advantage and they are still trying to but hopefully people have finally woken up to this immature and pathetic tactic!

demwit   November 13th, 2007 4:02 pm ET

"18 thousand die in this country each year due to inadequate health care."

Lack of health care insurance can kill you?? Oh my!!

Don, Denver CO   November 13th, 2007 4:17 pm ET

In response to Wendy in Atlanta:

I'm guessing you never owned a construction firm or a landscaping business have you? Yes in fact illegal immigrants ARE taking those jobs. Go to any fast food restaurant and you will see hardly if any at all teenagers working behind the counters. That same old mantra "they do the jobs Americans won't do" is nothing but a campaign slogan for the corporations to rationalize hiring illegals over American citizens. Its not that Americans won't do the job, it that the Americans can't live on below minimum wages to do the job. Americans have to pay taxes, which are taken off every paycheck, Americans have to buy health insurance, Americans have to pay bills so their credit won't be messed up. Illegals pay no taxes. Illegals use our emergency rooms for routine medical care and never pay the bill. I think its sad you would insult Americans over the criminals who come into this country illegally. If you are here illegally, by our own definition you are a criminal. I'm sure CNN won't post this as it won't fit with their liberal agenda.

christian Good, Melville, NY   November 13th, 2007 4:52 pm ET

PW, Atlanta, GA

who puts global warming, baseball and britney spears in the same category?

Rocco, Wellington, FL   November 13th, 2007 5:00 pm ET

Fear elected Bush to a second term and stupidity continues to agree with his policies! War debt at 1.6 trillion sound like fiscal responsibility to me?

christian Good, Melville, NY   November 13th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

Jerry Gertiser

good post!!

JC, Green Bay, WI   November 13th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

Be afraid, be very afraid, stay afraid; they will have you right where they want you. Just read what some on this site are writing, you can picture them dancing like puppets on a string.

This was written many years ago by G. Gurdjieff, and sadly, it's still so true today:

"The crowd neither wants nor seeks knowledge.
And the leaders of the crowd, in their own interests,
try to strengthen its fear and dislike of everything new and unknown.
The slavery in which mankind lives is based upon this fear".

Steve Rosset Long Beach Ca 90807   November 13th, 2007 5:46 pm ET

Be afraid. Be very afraid. The terrorists are out to get you. The homosexuals are out to get you. The
Republicans are out of ideas.

Kevin, Burnsville MN   November 13th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

Boo, now run and hide under your beds.

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI   November 13th, 2007 11:30 pm ET

Dear Ms. Buchanan:

The FBI Memo stating they received "a tip" re: Al Qaeda terrorists planning attacks on Shopping Malls is an investigative bureau's report to enlighten citizens for their protection and safety.

Tancredo's Television Ad is a Campaign Ploy to win votes using Fear Mongering Tactics. A huge difference.

The FBI is concerned about citizens' awareness and safety. They issued a statement. Tancredo's only concern is votes and his poll margins. He televised an in your face Ad which has nothing to do with confirmation and everything to do with sensalization.

illegal alien   November 14th, 2007 12:36 am ET

no Mees Jeannie, me no can go a home. me live here now. sorry I break law. so sorry. we alien illegals read your cnn ticker. ha ha. we take your joabs in rancho Spanish and aspeak broken Engleesh. Geesh. Christian or Satanist, defitely Nihilist, me wonders sometimes?

Joel, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania   November 14th, 2007 9:34 am ET

"Elect Tancredo or DIE!"

Well, that cinches it for me.

Kate, Aurora CO   November 14th, 2007 11:23 am ET

Since CNN censored my last comment, like I guessed they would, I'll edit down what I said. This is response to many posters who feel illegal immigrants are not taking jobs but Americans feel they are too good for the jobs. You have fallen for the campaign slogan of Corporate America who wants nothing but cheap labor. Americans do want these jobs. Recently there was a raid by INS at a meat processing factory. The next day Americans lined up outside looking to replace the jobs previously filled by illegal immigrants. I don't agree with all of Tancredo's plans but I do agree with him that illegal immigration is a very big problem in this country, one that is depleting public services and putting our country at risk. We as citizens have every right to demand our government know who is entering this country and for what purposes.

gino buffalo ny   November 14th, 2007 2:17 pm ET

I get that nonbody important will read this (so if you are reading this..you aren't ;) CNN stinks. news outlets all pander to sensational news nowadays. your editing of WWE and John Cena sucked ass. I get it you guys do it for headlines…well you got 'em :) good job! just dont think we dont get that your job sucks and you need to cheat to get attention. its part of the process we call life but the 1 vote I have (assuming there was a vote :) is that
you suck ('you' in the collective..I hope to assume some people working here have morals/intelligence).. then again, I suppose if your boss tells you what they expect, what are you gonna do. cha ching…paycheck=important. facts=not important

Nat, Brooklyn, NYC   November 15th, 2007 10:10 am ET

People, who wrote a negative response to the ad just didn't get it. Tom Tancredo first of all not really GOP candidate. He is anti-Bush and anti-current administration. In this ad he is talking about saving America and American people. It is great that at least one candidate represents American people, not big business and illegal aliens.

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