Some big names are headed in to campaign in the special election for the Pennsylvania House district formerly held by the late Democratic Rep. John Murtha: Vice President Joe Biden for Democrat Mark Critz, and former Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) for Republican Tim Burns.
Gingrich will headline a private fundraiser for Burns on Thursday, with a ticket cost of $150 for the general reception and $4,800 for a VIP event. Biden will campaign for Critz on Thursday.
Two recent polls show a toss-up in the race, with a possible edge for Burns due to the unpopularity of President Obama in the district. However, it must also be noted that the special election will be held on May 18, the same day as the statewide primaries. There are more contested Democratic races than Republican ones that day, and this could potentially boost Democratic turnout for Critz.
