GOP ad slams Nolan on requirements for welfare recipients

House Republicans’ campaign arm released an ad Tuesday arguing that Rep. Rick Nolan (D-Minn.) supports what the GOP views as a lack of judiciousness with welfare benefits.

The ad from the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) cites Nolan’s vote against a bill, H.R. 890, in 2013 that would prevent the Obama administration from giving states waivers from work requirements in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program. The welfare program provides aid to about four million Americans annually.

{mosads}The legislation was not specifically targeted at undocumented immigrants, however. 

Nonetheless, the NRCC ad ties Nolan’s previously stated support for a pathway to citizenship for immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally. 

“What is Rick Nolan thinking? Hardworking Minnesota families worry about getting by. Some even work two jobs. And Nolan votes against work requirements for welfare recipients? Sound fair to you?” an announcer says in the ad. “And how about Nolan saying he would grant citizenship to illegal immigrants? Making them eligible for welfare too.” 

“You work hard for a living, play by the rules. Rick Nolan just makes it harder,” the announcer concludes. 

Nolan is in a tough reelection race this year against Republican Stewart Mills.