Super Bowl ad stirred debate

Super Bowl ads always generate considerable interest, at least during the game. One became a subject of contention after the game.

For a few days after the New York Giants’ triumph over the New England Patriots, Chrysler’s “Halftime in America” ad starring actor Clint Eastwood stirred debate about whether its purpose was to sell cars or support President Barack Obama’s re-election campaign.

Of course, Mr. Obama’s administration provided bailout money and helped Chrysler and General Motors Co. reorganize in 2009 amid financial crisis.

Chrysler’s National Dealer Council felt it necessary to comment early last week when it said the ad “had no political agenda of any kind,” but expressed “hope for all of us and America.”

In the ad, Mr. Eastwood said: “Seems that we have lost our heart at times. The fog of division, discord and blame make it hard to see what lies ahead, but after those trials we all rallied around what was right and acted as one. Because that is what we do. We find a way through tough times and, if we can’t find a way, then we’ll make one. All that matters now is what’s ahead. How do we come from behind? How do we come together and how do we win?”

Republican commentator Karl Rove was bothered by the ad. David Axelrod, President Obama’s strategist, liked it.

Critics charged that the ad praised the Detroit bailout during an election year. Chrysler dealers said it was not political.

Chrysler has to be happy: the debate focused attention on the spot days after the game ended.