* Despite the polls, the New York Times rates Illinois’ governor’s race as a tossup between Pat Quinn and Bill Brady.

* The Question: Which candidate do you think has the true edge at the moment? Explain.

* Also, here’s a campaign roundup…

* Bob Dold for Congress’ first TV ad

* State Fair limits parade entries from politicians: Gov. Pat Quinn and other statewide officers, as well as their opponents in the November election, were allowed to sign up as entrants, but lower-level county officials and state lawmakers not from the Springfield area were strongly urged to stay away. “We would prefer to see a marching band, for instance,” Squibb said.

* The Strength & Influence of the Top 20 Republican and Democratic County Political Parties

* Quinn marches against violence, for black vote

* Journal Star: Quinn should quit campaigning on state’s dime

* Illinois Governor Pat Quinn’s Politics A Charade?

* Brady pledges to balance Illinois budget in first year

* Brady visits Quincy

* Brady Courts The Immigrant Bloc

* Brady Likes Sales Tax Holiday

* Whitney Releases Federal Tax Returns

* Jesse White endorsed for re-election by the Illinois Education Association

* Madigan calls on Democrats to engage

* Schilling-Hare in virtual tie in latest poll

* Politics but no debate outside Kane center: A political debate almost broke out on the steps of the Kane County Government Center between state Sen. Michael Noland and Steven Rauschenberger, his Nov. 2 Republican opponent, over state finances and Kane County’s own finances.

* Bond still spending, raising more than senate opponent

* 50th House challenger has $4,900 in campaign fund

* Red Dead Light Redemption

* Ald. Leslie Hairston eyes Daley’s job

* Sheriff candidates disagree over deputies’ role in Illiopolis