It Begins: Stemerman Takes Down Builder Bob in New Ad.

It helps to have money. Self-funding Republican David Stemerman begins to dismantle gubernatorial rival Bob Stefanowski today. Stemerman takes to the airwaves Wednesday morning with an ad highlighting Stefanowski’s recent history as a registered Democrat. The ad notes that Stefanowski, who declined to participate in elections for 16 years, did not vote for a host of Republicans, including Mitt Romney, John McCain and Donald Trump (who has also been a generous  donor to Democrats, including to Hillary Clinton).

The 30 second ad also slips in a reference to Stefanowski’s campaign contributions to Democrats. Primary voters will see the ad on cable and broadcast television in Connecticut and New York markets. Stefanowski’s latest campaign finance report suggests he will struggle to mount a defense that comes close to matching the comprehensive attack.

Republicans select their candidate for governor on August 14th.