Seals launches TV ad tied to Obama announcement

DENVER - Democratic congressional candidate Dan Seals is hoping to capitalize on Barack Obama's historic acceptance speech today.

The Wilmette businessman is going up with his first broadcast ad of the general election during Obama's nomination blowout at Invesco Field.

Seals' ad, which will run on Fox, CBS, NBC and ABC, features the candidate's family watching the convention on TV.

Seals tells viewers, "Our family is excited to share with you tonight's historic moment of change. It's why I'm running for Congress."

Seals is in his second run against U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk in the 10th District, which covers most of eastern Lake County and portions of northern Cook County.

The bout is expected to draw national attention and cost millions of dollars. National Republicans and Democrats consider it a top race. Seals garnered 47 percent of the vote in his 2006 bid.

Kirk's office didn't respond to a request for comment.

Elisabeth Smith, Seals' spokeswoman, said Obama plays well in the district.

"This is a difference he wants to highlight in this race," she said.