McCain Campaign Unveils First General Election Ad

As we mentioned in Starting Gate, John McCain has unveiled his first general election ad of the campaign. It's called "624787" – a reference to his military number – and will be running in New Mexico.

The spot opens with McCain giving a speech.

"Keep that faith," he says. "Keep your courage. Stick together. Stay strong. Do not yield. Stand up. We're Americans. And we'll never surrender."

Then an announcer begins speaking.

"What must a president believe about us? About America?" the announcer asks, as images of McCain grace the screen. "That she is worth protecting …that liberty is priceless … our people, honorable … our future, prosperous, remarkable and free. And, what must we believe about that president? What does he think? Where has he been? Has he walked the walk?"

The minute-long spot then offers video of a young McCain laying in a hospital bed, after having been captured and tortured in Vietnam. He offers his rank and official number – 624787. Watch the spot below.