Tancredo campaign defends commercial

DENVER, Nov. 13 (UPI) -- U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo's presidential campaign said Tuesday his ad showing a terrorist blowing up a shopping mall represents a real threat.

The Colorado Republican's campaign is centered on calls for a crackdown on illegal immigration.

The ad is being aired on cable television in Iowa, The Denver Post reported. It ends with a black screen, an explosion and the words "Tancredo -- before it's too late."

"We're doing this to bring attention to a real national security threat," said Alan Moore, a spokesman for the campaign. "The FBI has come out with reports that al-Qaida may be attempting to attack shopping malls this Christmas."

The commercial suggests terrorists can hide among job-seeking immigrants from Mexico and Central America, crossing the Mexican border.

Tancredo remains near the bottom of the crowded Republican field. Iowa holds its caucuses Jan. 3.