Pat Toomey and Joe Sestak are meeting tonight for the first of their two debates, just as polls are indicating the race has become a dead heat. Battle ‘10 has in-depth looks at the poll dynamics here and here.

Mr. Jensen [of Public Policy Polling] noted that Mr. Sestak still has a tough task in winning over the remaining undecided voters, who disapprove of the job Mr. Obama is doing by a 49-36 margin. …
With the race so tight, the mantra for both candidates will be: Don’t screw up.

Tonight’s debate will be at 7pm, broadcast live on ABC and moderated by George Stephanopoulos. It will take place at the National Constitution Center. Battle ‘10 will cover the debate live.

Watch for Sestak to bring up Sarah Palin’s endorsement of Pat Toomey today via Facebook for his anti-energy tax stance. Toomey should emphasize Sestak as self-admitted “strongest ally” of unpopular Obama.

Update: A Battle ‘10 reader writes:

The Phillies-Giants pregame show begins on FOX at 7pm in the local Philly market. First pitch at 7:57 pm.
Prediction: Phillies game will overwhelm debate viewership. Only thing Toomey needs to avoid is a mistake.