According to a press release from Freedom’s Watch, the nonprofit group will begin automatic phone calls "over [Martin] Heinrich’s lack of leadership on energy."

"The group has targeted candidates with robo-calls in 10 districts across the country, including New Mexico’s 1st Congressional District.

"Hi, I’m calling for Freedom’s Watch to tell you how to pay less at the pump," the call begins, according to the script. "It’s simple, urge liberals like Martin Heinrich to support increased domestic oil production instead of higher taxes. "

An e-mail to supporters an hour ago from Heinrich says he supports domestic drilling, among other options:

 

I believe we need to take an ‘everything’ approach when it comes to our energy policy. We need both short- and long-term solutions. In the short term, we need to expand domestic exploration where it’s safe to do so and we need to tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to provide immediate relief for New Mexico families.

 

Heinrich’s official campaign blog addresses the robo-calls and calls the group a " shadowy Republican attack group that financed radio ads."

Freedom’s Watch aired radio ads last week attacking Heinrich on energy issues. The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) quickly followed up with a response ad attacking Darren White, the Republican candidate in the 1st Congressional District, in addition to the Republican candidates in the other nine districts nationwide targeted by Freedom’s Watch.

The DCCC also launched a Web site called The Real Freedom’s Watch, which outlines close ties between the group and President George W. Bush.