PA-Sen: Santorum trails as campaign enters last throes

The last debate between Senate incumbent Rick Santorum (R-PA) and Democratic challenger Bob Casey came and went.  Much of the heated exchange focused on Iraq.  The two candidates copied the same tune they have been humming throughout the campaign season.  While Casey wanted a change in Iraq, and Santorum preferred to stay the course and defended the civilian leadership in the Pentagon.  Those points were rehashed during the debate:

Casey reiterated his opinion that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld should be fired.

"We need new leadership when it comes to Iraq," Casey said.

Santorum defended Rumsfeld, saying, "He follows policy. He doesn't make policy."

This debate ocurred just hours after the two campaigns released their third quarter earnings.  Casey has $3.7 million left, compared to Santorum's $3.6 million.  This is the first time that Casey has bested Santorum in the money race.

The latest Morning Call/Muhlenberg College poll shows Casey leading Santorum:

Pennsylvania Senate Race

(R) Rick Santorum - 41%

(D) Bob Casey - 46%

Meanwhile, social conservatives are scrambling to raise money to save Santorum as this campaign enters its last throes (sorry, had to use that wording).