Grief Exploited in Political Ads | Charlotte News

A grieving father’s tragic story is being weaponized in a heated political battle — Ronald Hayes, whose son was murdered, appears in both a pro-Michael Whatley ad accusing Governor Roy Cooper of releasing criminals and a counter-ad claiming he was misled into participating. Hayes says he wanted to spotlight gun violence and prison releases during the pandemic, not fuel a political attack — but now regrets his involvement, feeling pressured and deceived. He plans to meet with Cooper and vote for him, calling out exploitation of his grief as campaigns turn personal tragedy into campaign fodder. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ce32e9b809830de2