Race of the day: Pennsylvania's 'neck and neck' Senate contest

Name & Party:

DEMOCRAT

Joe Sestak

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REPUBLICAN

Pat Toomey

Basic Info:

Ret. Admiral, Congressman

Age: 58

Three-term Congressman

Age: 48

Issues:

• Voted for healthcare reform
• Pro gun control--"F" rating from NRA
• Prominent voice for gay rights
• Wants to repeal health-care law
• Anti gun control--"A" rating from NRA
• Voted for constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage

Polling At:44%46%Campaign Chest:$2.1 million$4.7 millionKey Quote:"I always take a vote as an Independent who happens to be a Democrat.""He is in complete lockstep with Nancy Pelosi's whole agenda."Petty Controversy:In attack ad, used an unflattering photo taken while his primary opponent, Arlen Specter, was undergoing chemotherapyAfter crusading against earmarks, collected $9 million in his first term (before eventually swearing them off)Wild card:Generally considered the underdog, Sestak has a history of last-minute electoral comebacks

Dueling Ads:"Belle": Sestak compares cleaning up after Toomey and Bush in the financial crisis to cleaning up after his family dog"Bailout Belle": Toomey responds to Sestak's "Belle" ad, suggesting Sestak's bank bailout vote wasn't reluctant at all

Joe Sestak's "Belle":

Pat Toomey's "Bailout Belle":

* "neck and neck" - The Takeaway