A radio ad comparing U.S. Rep. Jon Runyan to “Frankenstorm” is causing a storm of its own, with Runyan’s campaign today demanding an apology from his Democratic opponent, Shelley Adler.

“Shelley Adler should immediately take down this ridiculous and insulting ad, and publicly apologize to the people of Ocean and Burlington Counties, many of whom have been devastated by Hurricane Sandy,” said Runyan Campaign Manager Kristin Antonello.

“Shelley Adler’s campaign has been dishonest and nasty from the start, but she should be embarrassed by her decision to ever run this radio ad. It really brings her judgment into question.”

The minute-long spot, which the Adler campaign said is no longer running, begins by saying “They’re calling it Frankenstorm – a nor’easter inside of a hurricane.”

“In New Jersey we’ve seen acts of nature do real damage,” it continues. “We’re also seeing our own member of Congress do lasting damage in Washington. Jon Runyan has been in Congress only two short years, and already he’s voted over and over against New Jersey workers and families.”

The ad goes on to say Runyan supports tax breaks for companies that outsource jobs, subsidies to oil companies, raising the age for social security and privatizing Meidicare.

Adler campaign manager Michael Muller said the spot began airing on Saturday, although it did run during the hurricane.

“We’re dealing with relief efforts and Jon Runyan’s campaign is issuing press releases trying to tell this horrible story about how he feels that he’s under attack when families are dealing with real problems here,” he said.

Muller said the ad was released as people were preparing for the storm.

In a statement issued by the campaign, Muller added it “in no way denigrates or minimizes the storm that was impending at the time it was released.”

Related coverage:

• PolitiFact N.J.: Shelley Adler says Jon Runyan 'voted to redefine rape'

• N.J. congressional races could help determine control of House

