I agree that the fault lies with the politician, but I would argue that the real issue is that they forced all ISPs to send notice to customers. If a politician wants something communicated, they can fund a public awareness program, not force it on ISPs. That fault doesn't exonerate CentryLink's action.
Haha I think you hit the nail on the head. Maybe this was Centurylink's way of giving a big F U to the politicians making them advertise something they don't want to advertise.
edited to add CentryLink responsibility