Sen. Nelson looks to keep seat against Rep. Mack

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) -- Republicans hoping to take control of the U.S. Senate would get a big boost if Connie Mack beats Democratic Sen. Bill Nelson, but the two-term incumbent is favored to win.

The Senate race in Florida has almost become an afterthought compared with the battle between President Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney.

Nelson has built an image as a moderate who is well-liked, and he has a history of winning even when Republicans prevail in other top races.

Mack will need a big Romney win in Florida to beat Nelson. Mack currently represents southwest Florida in Congress and is seeking the seat his father held before retiring in 2001. His great-grandfather was a baseball Hall of Famer.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)