State Sen. Brad Zaun is up with his first television ad in the Des Moines media market this cycle.

Standing in a tool shop, the Republican draws a contrast between himself and seven-term Rep. Leonard Boswell (D).

“Leonard Boswell claims the country is on the right path. I couldn’t disagree more,” Zaun says. “This November we have a clear choice in the 3rd Congressional district. The Boswell-Pelosi path leads to more spending, bigger government and more debt. If you think government is too big and costs too much, I need your vote.”

The spot follows a radio ad that Zaun already released. Boswell started airing his first TV ad in Des Moines on Friday, following three weeks of a radio ad airing in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids.

The third district is the most competitive House race in the Hawkeye State. Boswell is a perennial Republican target, and a recent poll showed him leading Zaun by 9 points. Roll Call rates this race as Leans Democratic.

Grant Woodard, Boswell’s campaign manager, dismissed the ads as “empty rhetoric” and pointed out that Boswell’s big advantage in fundraising has allowed him to buy far more ad time on TV and radio to make his case for remaining in office.

“If [Zaun] wants to run against Nancy Pelosi,” Woodard said, “he should move to California because this November he will be conceding to Leonard Boswell.”