In what the committee calls its first ad of the cycle that addresses the financial crisis, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee is targeting Rep. Christopher Shays (R) on the airwaves for a second time this cycle.

“And the fundamentals of our economy are strong,” the ad quotes President Bush as saying.

“The fundamentals of our economy are strong,” the ad quotes GOP presidential nominee John McCain as saying.

“Our economy is fundamentally strong,” the ad quotes Shays as saying.

“Really?” an announcer asks. “After 21 years in Washington, nearly $80,000 in pay raises, wanting to risk our Social Security in the stock market, Chris Shays has lost touch.”

“Our economy is fundamentally strong,” the ad quotes Shays. “No one can disagree with that.”

The buy, which cost about $110,000, was broadcast only on cable in the Nutmeg State district just north of New York City — the most expensive broadcast media market in the country.

Democrats have nominated Greenwich Town Committee Chairman Jim Himes to challenge Shays. As the last GOP House Member in New England, Shays has been an elusive target for Democrats — staving off opponents by just a few thousands votes in recent cycles.