SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) - During a debate in Syracuse, candidates for the 24th congressional race say they aren't happy out-of-town influences are running negative campaign ads.

D.A. Michael Arcuri and Senator Ray Meier say they're disappointed by attack ads produced and paid for by national party committees. But, campaign finance laws prevent them from screening those commercials or having any input into their content.

Political analysts have ranked the 24th congressional race as among the most competitive in the nation, as Democrats seek to regain control of Congress. As a result, national party contributions have flowed to both candidates.

(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)