Kirk, Giannoulias release TV ads Thursday

The two major party candidates for U.S. Senate each plan to release statewide television ads Thursday.

While Democrat Alexi Giannoulias is highlighting an endorsement from President Barack Obama, Republican Mark Kirk is promoting a moderate voting record.

The opening footage of Giannoulias' 30-second spot, entitled "The Choice," features the president speaking at an August fundraiser at Chicago's Palmer House Hotel.

Obama, during that speech, says Giannoulias, the current Illinois treasurer, has "proven himself as someone who isn't afraid to stand up to special interests," and is not "funding this campaign with federal or lobbyist money. Not a dime."

Campaign spokeswoman Kathleen Strand said the ad is the first in the country to feature an endorsement from the president this election. Obama also endorsed Giannoulias during his bid for Illinois treasurer in 2006.

Kirk's ad, a 30-second feature entitled "Thoughtful," hints that his opponent, if elected would vote the Democratic Party line.

Kirk's votes supporting stem cell research and extending student loan coverage, along with his efforts to protect Lake Michigan, make him "consistently rated one of the most independent leaders," the ad says, pointing to analysis of Congressional voting records by Congressional Quarterly magazine and the Washington Post.

The candidates are locked in an extremely close race for Obama's old seat, currently held by Roland Burris.