Obama's political team airs healthcare ad

WASHINGTON, July 15 (UPI) -- U.S. President Barack Obama's political team began running television ads Wednesday, urging Democrats and centrist Republicans to support healthcare reform.

The 30-second spots developed by Organizing for America will run in eight states for two weeks, a preview of the ad by CNN indicated.

The spots, highlighting five people discussing healthcare issues, also will run on national cable television and online, Organizing for America officials said.

"Millions of Americans lose their health insurance when they lose their (jobs), are denied care because of a pre-existing condition, and delay care or skip medication because they can't afford it," Organizing for America Executive Director Mitch Stewart said in a statement. "Skyrocketing healthcare costs are hurting American families and straining already-strapped budgets for businesses and governments. It's time to reform our healthcare system to lower costs, preserve patient choice and ensure that all Americans have access to quality, affordable care."

Next week, Organizing for America said it will conduct a series of news conferences, town hall meetings and other grassroots events to highlight healthcare reform.

Obama has challenged Congress to deliver healthcare reform legislation to his desk by October.