CLEVELAND (Oct. 19, 2010) — The Humane Society Legislative Fund, the nation’s leading political advocacy organization for animal welfare, today launched a television advertisement supporting the reelection of U.S. Rep. Betty Sutton in Ohio’s 13th Congressional district. The ad is narrated by “Hot in Cleveland” star and HSLF National Council member Wendie Malick.

The ad, which cites Sutton’s leadership on animal protection policies, will air on Cleveland television. The group has also sent mailings and email to thousands of animal welfare supporters in the district.

“Betty Sutton has been an effective leader in protecting animals and fighting against cruelty,” said Michael Markarian, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “She is working to protect pets, wildlife, and farm animals, and standing up for the values of kindness and compassion. We urge voters in the 13th district who care about the humane treatment of animals to support Betty Sutton.”

The 30-second TV ad shows images that highlight Sutton’s record of leadership on key animal protection issues, such as dogfighting, puppy mills, and “downer” cattle. Among her many actions to protect animals, Sutton has:

• A perfect 100 percent rating on the Humane Scorecard. (2009)
• Sponsored a bill to strengthen the federal law against dogfighting. (H.R. 3219—110th Congress)
• Co-sponsored a bill to protect dogs and crack down on large-scale puppy mill abuses. (H.R. 5434)
• Co-sponsored a bill to ban trafficking in obscene animal “crush” videos. (H.R. 5566)
• Co-sponsored a bill to stop the slaughter of American horses for foreign delicacies. (H.R. 503)
• Co-sponsored a bill to require the immediate euthanasia of “downer” cows who are too sick or injured to walk. (H.R. 4356)

HSLF is a nonpartisan organization that endorses Democratic, Republican and Independent candidates. HSLF evaluates candidates based on two overarching criteria: their viability and their stands on animal protection policies. HSLF does not judge candidates on party affiliation or any other issue. For a complete list of endorsements, go to hslf.org/voter_guide.

Media Contact: Kristen Eastman, 301/721-6440, keastman@hslf.org

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The Humane Society Legislative Fund is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code and formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States. The HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. On the web at www.hslf.org.

Paid for by Humane Society Legislative Fund and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. HSLF, 519 C Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002.