Businessman Walt Minnick (D), hoping to upset freshman Rep. Bill Sali (R) in the solidly Republican 1st district, is on the air with two television ads touting his Gem State roots and corporate background.

The two 30-second spots are running on broadcast television in Boise, Lewiston and Spokane, Wash., which covers Coeur d’Alene. Minnick is also on the radio in northern Idaho with a 60-second radio ad.

Minnick, who is personally wealthy, is prepared to spend his own money on the race. The Democrat reported $444,000 in cash on hand as of June 30, nearly double Sali’s $250,000.

“Times are tough, and Washington’s failing us,” the voice-over says in the opening of one of Minnick’s ads. “Idaho needs a leader who’s faced these kinds of challenges before.”

Republicans continue to dismiss Minnick’s attempts to position himself as a conservative politically atuned to the 1st district’s constituents. Despite the fact that Sali lags in fundraising, they are confident that he will win on Nov. 4.

“While Minnick tries to portray himself as the right fit for Idaho, in reality he has lined his campaign coffers with funds from Democrat leaders who have refused to bring legislation to the House floor that would lower gas prices,” said Julie Shutley, spokeswoman for the National Republican Congressional Committee.

“Because Minnick is grossly out of step with the district, the voters will be left with a clear choice in November.”