Sen. John Kerry, D-Massachusetts, criticized MoveOn.org Monday for taking an ad out in The New York Times criticizing Gen. David Petraeus. The general is testifying before Congress today about the situation in Iraq. (Related: Dems join GOP in slamming ad attacking Petraeus)

"I don't like any kind of characterizations in our politics that call into question any active duty, distinguished general," Kerry told CNN, adding "who I think under any circumstances serves with the best interests of our country."

Kerry is a decorated Vietnam War veteran who was awarded two Purple Hearts. In his 2004 presidential campaign, Kerry was attacked by the group Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, who questioned his service in the war.

Kerry called the MoveOn.org ad "over the top" and specifically noted that he did not like the wording in the text.

"I didn't like the terminology," he said. "I didn't like it."

The ad shows a picture of Petraeus with the words "General Petraeus or General Betray us?"