A US SENATE candidate has come under fire for using an image of James Foley’s masked killer in an online campaign ad attacking his rival.

Allen Weh, a New Mexico Republican running against incumbent Senator Tom Udall, released the controversial ad yesterday.

In it, he attacks President Barack Obama’s work ethic and handling of foreign policy crises – including the rise of Islamic State in the Middle East.

Udall, a Democrat, is targeted by extension in the ad, for his support of Obama.

New Mexico Republican candidate for US Senate, Allen Weh. AllenWeh AllenWeh

His campaign manager, Daniel Sena, has lashed out at Weh’s use of the image of the Islamic State militant holding a knife, which can be seen for a few frames at the 31-second mark.

James Foley’s death is a tragedy, and to use his killer’s horrific image for personal gain in a campaign ad is reprehensible and appalling.

If Allen Weh wants to talk about the issues with New Mexico voters, he should find a way to do it that is respectful and substantive.

Using James Foley’s horrific and tragic death for shock value is offensive to Mr. Foley’s family, New Mexico voters and the rest of our country.

Under the video on his website, Weh claims: “The lack of strong decisive leadership in Washington clearly threatens our national security.”

According to CNN, Udall holds a comfortable lead over Weh, and is likely to win easy re-election to the US Senate in November.

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