Attack ads for the Onondaga County executive's race are filling TVs this election season.

“You have a county executive that is standing for reelection and running on his record,” said Nick Langworthy, New York Republican State Committee Chairman. “You have one candidate who decided he was going to take this race to the toilet."

Democratic challenger Tony Malavenda's campaign ads make criminal accusations against Republican incumbent Ryan McMahon. They claim McMahon was involved in a ponzi scheme, defrauded investors, and gave himself an illegal pay raise.

McMahon's lawyers sent a cease and desist letter but Malavenda isn't worried.

"The letter is just theater. I'm not concerned about it at all,” said Malavenda. “You know, that is a typical political move. That's done every time there is a negative ad. Everything that's in there is sourced. Everything is true."

Wednesday afternoon, Malavenda questioned McMahon's fitness for office. Claiming McMahon did not do his due diligence before recommending Central New Yorkers invest in a fraudulent scheme.

"I've heard him say 'Well, I just invited people to my house for dinner,' but I got to tell you this isn't like a Tupperware party,” said Malavenda. “We're talking serious money. People lost a lot of money, so it's a competence issue."

McMahon supporters protested the claims, calling Malavenda dishonest. Malavenda's former company received $3 million in tax breaks. Then, along with hundreds of other companies, it was kicked out of the state program.

"We find out he's been exploiting a system this whole way,” said Langworthy. “I mean he made millions on the backs of these same systems he's railing against. I mean it's total hypocrisy from pillar to post."

McMahon was unavailable for comment.

In less than two weeks voters will weigh in on who they feel is fit to lead. Early voting begins this Saturday, October 26 and continues for nine days. Polls are open on Election Day, November 5, from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.