Rick Santorum's campaign, hoping to build on its growing momentum, is airing a new, upbeat ad in Michigan arguing that the former Pennsylvania senator is the best candidate to face President Obama in November.
"Who has the best chance to beat Obama? Rick Santorum," a cheerful voice-over in the ad says. "A full-spectrum conservative, Rick Santorum is rock solid on values issues. A favorite of the Tea Party for fighting corruption and taxpayer abuse; more foreign policy credentials than any candidate."
Santorum has set his sights on a strong showing in Michigan, a state where former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney's campaign has expected to perform well. Romney grew up in the state, and his father served as governor. He won the state during his 2008 nomination fight against Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.).
Santorum is known as a strong proponent of social conservatism, but in Michigan his campaign plans to highlight his blue-collar ties to appeal to that constituency.
"And Rick's Made in America jobs plan will make America an economic superpower again," the voice continues.
After a trio of victories in three GOP nominating contests a week ago, Santorum says his campaign has a good chance of beating Romney in Michigan. Recent polling has shown Santorum either closely tied or just ahead of Romney nationally, and leading him in the state.