Piccola, Hirsh smashing spending records, report says

The first serious challenge to state Sen. Jeff Piccola (R-Dauphin County) in years has led to the largest campaign spending influx the 15th Senatorial District has ever seen, The Patriot-News reports.

"I would be shocked if this wasn't the largest amount spent on television ads in that district's history. I would be shocked if it wasn't," said Franklin & Marshall pollster Terry Madonna. "This is the first time I think Piccola is seriously threatened, and this is massive spending in that district's history."

Each candidate has aired several negative TV ads that have left their opponent bristling. The latest ad has Hirsh even threatening legal action.

The paper reports Friends for Judy Hirsh have spent nearly $200,000 toward television production. Friends of Jeff Piccola spent $75,000 on consulting fees and media buys -- many of his ads have been funded by the state Republican Party.