WASHINGTON — U.S. Sen. Bob Casey and his Republican challenger, former hedge fund CEO David McCormick spent more than $310,000 a day during the first two weeks of October blanketing the airwaves with political ads, new Federal Election Commission disclosures show.

Casey, D-Pa., spent $2.5 million and McCormick $2.4 million on advertising during the first 16 days of October.

McCormick's aligned super PAC, Keystone Renewal, spent $4.2 million on media to support the GOP nominee during that period, more than either of the candidates.

Overall, Casey spent $50.5 million on his quest for a third term through Oct. 16, more than double the $21.4 million he spent during his last reelection campaign. McCormick spent $26 million, helped in part by more than $4 million from his own pocket.

The Cook Political Report has rated the race, which may determine which party controls the Senate, as a toss-up.

In Western Pennsylvania's only competitive House race, U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio, D-Aspinwall, spent more money in the first 16 days of October, $1.5 million, than his opponent, state Rep. Rob Mercuri, R-Pine, spent on his entire campaign. $1.4 million. Almost all of Deluzio's spending went for advertising, $1.3 million, while Mercuri spent only $265,676 on media.

From Jan. 1, 2023, to Oct. 16, 2024, Deluzio raised $4.7 million and spent $4.3 million, while Mercuri took in $1.7 million.

U.S. Rep. Summer Lee, D-Swissvale, brought in $2.9 million during that period and spent $1.9 million. Republican James Hayes raised $126,878 and spent $122.426.