As the Nutmeg State’s August 10 GOP Senate primary approaches, Rob Simmons, a former congressman, is highlighting his record of service. In a new $250,000 ad buy, Simmons showcases his military experience as a soft piano tune plays. He also takes a jab at Linda McMahon, his self-financed opponent. “Lest we forget,” the narrator intones, “service defines us. Service protects us, it heals us, it inspires us . . . And the right to serve is earned — it is not bought, it is not entered into on a whim.”

Meanwhile, Peter Schiff, a conservative financier also gunning for the GOP nod, has decided to go negative against McMahon. You could say that this ad hits below the belt:

In recent days, Simmons has collected a string of endorsements, from the Hartford Courant to the Norwich Bulletin.