President Obama — and First Lady Michelle — are returning to the City of Brotherly Love.

In case there was any doubt about how critically important the Democrats view Joe Sestak’s senate race against Pat Toomey, this news should put those doubts to rest.

President Obama made his first return to the Keystone State earlier this month on Oct. 10 when he stumped in Philadelphia and told a largely black crowd of a few thousand that Republicans were “counting on black folks staying home.”

Now reports are emerging that Obama will return to Philly for a last-minute rally next Sat., Oct. 30. Then, Nov. 1, the day before Election Day, Michelle Obama will make an appearance as well, fulfilling Joe Sestak’s long-deferred request.

“As we see the tide turning in our direction, the President, participating in these events and laying out the choice voters face on November 2, will be vital to improving our chances for success on Election Day,” Tim Kaine, DNC Chairman said in a statement.

Pennsylvania is, indeed, earning its reputation as a battleground state. Former President Clinton, along with Joe Biden, Michael Bloomberg, Chuck Hagel, and a host of others have visited the commonwealth.

In other words, this is the central Senate race for Democrats and Republicans alike.