Dayton’s first ad highlights bio for already well-known name

DFL gubernatorial candidate Mark Dayton’s campaign has released its first TV ad, and MPR reports that the ad buy is for at least $354,000 in the Twin Cities market.

A basic introductory ad, the spot starts with images of Dayton traveling around the state talking to voters, before going on to address his biography and Minnesota “roots” that include a stint as an all-state hockey goalie in high school.

While this type of ad is standard for most politicians, it’s an interesting choice for Dayton, as he holds much higher name recognition then either of his opponents for the party nomination and should be familiar to most DFL primary voters. The ad outlines two reasons most Minnesota voters should already recognize Dayton: his family’s ownership of Target and the now-defunct department store Dayton’s, and his time representing the state in the U.S. Senate.

The ad ends by hitting a few general campaign issues, highlighting his pledge to raise taxes on Minnesotans in the highest income bracket.

Here’s Dayton’s new ad: