Campaign Ads Using AARP Name Are Unauthorized

AARP Illinois’ statement regarding recent political ad attacking Congressional candidate Randy Hultgren while using unauthorized use of AARP’s name and logo

SPRINGFIELD, IL — Use of the AARP name and logo in a recent political ad in support of Democrat Lauren Underwood in the race to represent Illinois' 14th Congressional District were unauthorized and do not represent the views of the non-partisan organization that works on behalf of older adults and their families.

“AARP does not endorse candidates or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates,” said AARP Illinois State Director Bob Gallo. “We have a proud 32-year history of non-partisan voter engagement, providing voters with information on where the candidates stand on issues important to our members and their families so they can make their own decisions on Election Day.”

In recent months, AARP Illinois has showcased its firm commitment to letting voters learn the issues and decide for themselves through its continuing Enough is Enough campaign, in which AARP Illinois staff and volunteers work to mobilize citizens across Illinois to hold all elected officials accountable for results that bring us back to full fiscal solvency, and to restore an economy that delivers on the promises made to this and future generations.

As part of Enough is Enough, AARP Illinois surveyed voters about their concerns and mood prior to the upcoming election. Last week, AARP Illinois also partnered with the Chicago Sun-Times in an editorial board debate between gubernatorial candidates which was streamed live online for voters to view.

We urge all candidates to address voters’ concerns on issues like Medicare, Social Security, prescription drugs, Medicaid, and caregiving. We also encourage our members and all Americans to ask questions so they understand where the candidates stand on these and other important issues and choose the candidates that best reflect their views and values.

Ultimately, we ask that AARP members and Americans to sign the pledge at aarp.org/vote, be the difference in this election, and vote.”

 

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of more than 37 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment security and retirement planning. We advocate for consumers in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world's largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP VIVA, a bilingual news source. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.