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Democrat Steve Wilkins, running in a tough congressional race against Republican Rep. Renee Ellmers, says his 22 years of military service – which include a key role in planning the invasion of Iraq – show the spirit of public service Washington needs to break the partisan logjam.

Wilkins is at the polls every day, introducing himself to early voters. But the odds are against him. National Democrats haven’t poured money into his campaign. And Ellmers, with much more cash, has another big advantage: The Republican legislature redrew her district in her favor. Full race profile here.

More political headlines:

--The main candidates for governor say they favor taking some steps to make state government more transparent, but both avoid sweeping promises about opening up many more records than are already public.

Democratic challenger Steve Wilkins is calling on Republican Congresswoman Renee Ellmers to debate -- but so far she is refusing.

Wilkins said that Ellmers, who represents the 2nd District, has turned down an offer to debate on WTVD in Raleigh. “Voters deserve some answers from Rep. Ellmers about her record,” Wilkins said. “Debates should be a basic part of the electoral process.''

Congresswoman Renee Ellmers' new TV ad is walking a fine line when it comes to her stance on marriage.

Ellmers, a freshman Republican facing three primary challengers, spoke out against North Carolina's marriage amendment earlier this year, saying she would vote against it. But in the 30-second TV ad, the narrator says Ellmers "fights for traditional marriage." (Watch above.)

Her spokesman said the same line earlier this year when acknowledging she'd vote against and doesn't oppose civil unions. ("She has an will continue to protect and defend marriage at the federal level," the aide said. More here.)

The statements draw a distinction at the federal and state level when it comes to banning gay marriage. But will voters see the nuance as genuine, or will they think she's talking out of both sides of her mouth?