RALEIGH, N.C. — A case that combines political free speech and campaign finance law went to federal court Monday.

The Republican Governor's Association argues the state Board of Elections is unfairly denying its right to run campaign ads.

"I am of the belief that the partisan state Board of Elections has unfairly applied a different standard to my party, the Republican Party, than they have applied to the Democratic Party," said Republican plaintiff Holly Koerber.

Board members said the ads are illegal because they are funded by union money.

Judge Terrence Boyle said he will rule on the case as soon as possible. Until then, a temporary order stands that allows stations to run the ads. Some TV stations across the state are running the ads. So far, it is not scheduled to air on WRAL.