U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek, the Democratic candidate in the U.S. Senate race, launched a new television commercial on Tuesday morning, trying to offer a stark contrast between his record and that of Gov. Charlie Crist, who is running without party affiliation. For Meek to get back in the race, he needs to keep Democrats in his column--and away from Crist.

"On issue after issue, Kendrick is the only candidate who has fought for middle-class Florida families," said Abe Dyk, Meek‘s campaign manager. "He's the only one will repeal the Bush tax cuts for the super wealthy, stop big developers from draining Florida wetlands, and stand up to the deep pockets of special interests. While Charlie Crist was getting cozy with big developers and special interest lobbyists in Tallahassee, Kendrick was fighting to cut taxes for middle-class families, increase the minimum wage, and rein in high credit card fees. Kendrick is the only candidate who will fight to get our economy moving for everyday Floridians -- not the big developers or special interests."

This is the first television ad for the general election though Meek ran a number of commercials during his bitter primary fight with Jeff Greene.