Democratic Rep. Tierney defends himself in new ad

BOSTON (AP) - Democratic U.S. Rep. John Tierney is pushing back against attempts to link him to an illegal gambling business operated by his brothers-in-law as he seeks re-election.

In a new 30-second television ad, Tierney criticizes Republican opponent Richard Tisei for talking a lot about his wife Patrice and "the mess her brothers have gotten into."

Tierney says a judge determined he wasn't involved "in any way, shape, or form."

Tierney then criticizes Tisei for accepting support from tea party Republicans and supporting changes to Medicare offered by GOP vice presidential nominee Paul Ryan.

Tierney's wife was sentenced last year to 30 days in prison after pleading guilty to helping file false tax returns for a brother.

Republicans consider the race their best chance of picking up a Congressional seat in Massachusetts.

Cox Media Group