LEWISTON, Maine — U.S. Rep. Mike Michaud, who is running for re-election in Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, unveiled his first paid television ad of the 2012 campaign on Tuesday.

The 30-second spot features veterans praising the East Millinocket Democrat for working to establish medical clinics in Houlton, Lincoln, Bangor and Lewiston-Auburn. The additional VA clinics eliminated the need for veterans to travel long distances to receive medical care, the Michaud campaign said in a press release.

“Maine veterans and our armed forces deserve to have our utmost thanks and respect for their service,” Michaud said in a statement. “I am proud of my record regarding our veterans and armed forces, and I am proud to have had their support while serving in Congress. I will continue to fight for them as long as I am a United States congressman.”

The ad will run in all three Maine TV markets – Bangor, Presque Isle, and Portland, the Michaud campaign said.

Michaud’s Republican challenger, Maine Senate President Kevin Raye of Perry, unveiled his first TV ad of the campaign last week.