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Santorum cuts down Casey's lead

Tom Infield and Carrie Budoff , Philadelphia Inquirer

August 16, 2006 Santorum cuts down Casey's lead

After spending $3.5 million on TV ads, U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum (R-PA) is cutting down challenger Bob Casey's (D) lead from 18 points in June to within 6 points. According to results released yesterday by the Quinnipiac University poll, Casey edged Santorum 48-42%, with 5% choosing Green Party candidate Carl Romanelli and another 5% undecided. In a two-way race, Casey led Santorum 47-40% with 11% undecided. Santorum is now ahead among male voters and has picked up support in Philadelphia, although support in suburban counties remained unchanged. The poll also showed the race tightening in every region except in the northwest where Casey opened his lead over the Senator. Romanelli picked up most of his 5% from independent voters. His inclusion in the race did not significantly alter the spread between Casey and Santorum.

Casey spokesman Larry Smar stressed that Santorum's support is still below 50% despite spending a significant amount of money. But Santorum spokeswoman Virginia Davis said she isn't expecting the numbers to change yet, until the candidates debate on TV. Their first debate will be on Sept. 3 on NBC's Meet the Press. As of mid-July, Santorum has raised $20.1 million, almost double of what Casey raised.

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