Ashley Judd Tape Leaked!

Are secret tapings the new political tactic?

Ashley Judd, who was in consideration to run as a Democratic candidate for Mitch McConnell’s Senate seat, is the latest involved in released political scandal.

Mother Jones released a tape (similar to the leaked Mitt Romney infamous “47% tape”) reveals McConnell’s campaign aides plotting to attack her campaign by highlighting her struggle with depression.

This is yet another example of the politics of personal destruction that embody Mitch McConnell and are pervasive in Washington, D.C.," Judd said in a statement. "We expected nothing less from the Mitch McConnell and his camp to take a personal struggle such as depression, which many Americans cope with on a daily basis, and turn it into a laughing matter."

In the tape, aides highlight Judd’s autobiography, which discusses her consideration of suicide and a 42-day hospitalization for a mental breakdown, as well as comments on religion.

They call the “Olympus Has Fallen” actress “extremely unbalanced” and “a haystack of needles.”

The backlash from the McConnell campaign has been severe. They call the secret taping “Nixonian tactics” on the part of liberals, and are asking the FBI to investigate.

On March 27, Judd announced on Twitter that she would not be running for the position.

“After serious and thorough contemplation, I realize that my responsibilities & energy at this time need to be focused on my family. Regretfully, I am currently unable to consider a campaign for the Senate.

“I have spoken to so many Kentuckians over these last few months who expressed their desire for a fighter for the people & new leader.  While that won't be me at this time, I will continue to work as hard as I can to ensure the needs of Kentucky families are met by returning this Senate seat to whom it rightfully belongs: the people and their needs, dreams, and great potential.

Thanks for even considering me as that person & know how much I love our Commonwealth.”