Campaign Notebook: Senate Hopefuls Spin Debate Into Victories

Fifth District

The outside money keeps pouring into the Fifth District. After the Democratic National Campaign Committee spent nearly $800,000 to support Elizabeth Esty, Andrew Roraback is getting some help of his own. Politico reports that the Government Integrity Fund Action Network is pledging $1.1 million to support Roraback's campaign.

Senate

Who won the second debate between Linda McMahon and Chris Murphy? It depends who you believe.

As soon as the debate on Oct. 11 ended, both campaigns talked up their candidates.

Murphy’s campaign boldly claimed that he is now an undefeated 2-0 in the debates.

“Tonight, Chris Murphy proved once again that he is the only candidate in this race focused on creating jobs for the middle class, fighting for women’s rights, and protecting seniors’ benefits,” said Murphy campaign spokesperson Ben Marter in a written statement. 

McMahon’s campaign analyzed the debate and said that Murphy spent 13 minutes and 24 seconds “attacking” McMahon, and only 4 minutes and 15 seconds “discussing the issues.”

“It seems there is no limit to Congressman Murphy’s hypocrisy,” said campaign manager Corry Bliss said in a written statement. “Only a career politician like Chris Murphy would try to spin his opponent as a negative campaigner while spending over 75 percent of last night's debate on personal attacks.”

Both candidates debate for a third time on Oct. 15 at 7 p.m. in New London.