Chicago's Fraternal Order of Police and the state's largest public service workers union came out Friday afternoon with stern statements admonishing Rahm Emanuel over a new television ad.
In the spot, dubbed "Service," Emanuel vows to be mindful of taxpayers' wallets.
"We're going to deliver a service to the taxpayers. We're going to get them the best price for what they pay for," Emanuel says in the ad. "And that means making sure that everyone that works for the city government knows that they're actually a public servant representing and helping the people that pay them."
It's four words in that phrase -- "actually a public servant" -- with which the groups take issue.
The statement, from FOP President Mark Donahue, concludes:
"I believe Rahm knows better and should take this offensive ad off the air immediately and concentrate on real issues."
In a separate statement, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees union said Emanuel's ad "impugns [public servants'] integrity and dedication."
"City workers are public servants, not punching bags," said AFSCME's Executive Director, Henry Bayer.
Gery Chico's campaign supports the FOP's criticism of the ad.
"I think it's inappropriate to attack the people who run into burning buildings and who just rode snowmobiles to rescue people trapped in a blizzard. They certainly don't need Rahm Emanuel to remind them about the meaning of public service," said Chico spokeswoman Brooke Anderson.
The Emanuel campaign said the ad wasn't meant to describe all public servants.
The FOP has previously endorsed Chico in the race for the mayor's office,
Watch the Ad:
