McCain challenger touts record in first TV ad of general election

Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick’s first TV ad of the general election campaign highlights her record as she seeks to unseat longtime Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).

{mosads}The 30-second spot, entitled “New Leader,” will start airing statewide Thursday. It portrays Kirkpatrick as a candidate with an independent streak who will take on special interests.

While it doesn’t mention McCain by name, the ad argues that Kirkpatrick won’t become a senator who conforms to Washington.

The ad also pays homage to the cowboy boots Kirkpatrick has owned since she was 18 that she has frequently invoked while campaigning in her sprawling, competitive district.

“Our campaign continues to build momentum because Arizonans want new, principled leadership in the U.S. Senate who will always fight for working families, our communities, and our state’s future,” Kirkpatrick said in a statement.

Last week, McCain cruised to victory in his primary and now faces a tough reelection battle against Kirkpatrick this fall. The GOP senator has acknowledged this is his most challenging race to date.

McCain came out swinging last week with an ad vowing that he will be a check on Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton.

McCain has an 8-point lead on Kirkpatrick in the RealClearPolitics polling average.

But Democrats are hoping to flip Arizona by linking McCain to GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump’s controversial rhetoric about Latinos.