Lenda SherrellNASHVILLE -- Lenda Sherrell is taking U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais to task in a new commercial in which the Democrat draws a direct line from abuse allegations made by his first wife to the lawmaker's subsequent votes on domestic violence.
In the ad, Sherrell, a retired certified public account from Monteage, speaks directly into the camera and alludes to charges revealed in the 2012 release of DesJarlais' 2001 divorce transcript.
"Domestic abuse is difficult to discuss," Sherrell says. "When Scott DesJarlais' wife said under oath he abused her, he asked for forgiveness. Like many, my husband and I prayed for them and forgave."
"But," Sherrell goes on to say in the 30-second spot, "actions speak louder than words. When Congressman DesJarlais had the opportunity to potect victims of domestic violence, he voted no. That we can't forget."
Sherrell then poses the following 4th Congressional District voters: "If that was your daughter would you still forgive and forget?"
During his 2010 campaign, DesJarlais denounced as "all false" reports he had put a gun inside his mouth for more than two hours and threatened suicide after it became apparent the relationship with his then wife was over.
But in the divorce transcript, released after his 2012 campaign, the South Pittsburg physician testified under oath the allegation were substantially true and that he had indeed threatened suicide, calling it "immature" and said he regretted frightening her.
But he denied "dry-firing" his handgun outside her bedroom, saying he was only spinning the empty chamber of the weapon.
The Sherrell campaign says DesJarlais voted against reauthorizing the Violence Against Women Act.