BostonGlobe.com Political Headlines - October 16, 2012

Here are the top political headlines from BostonGlobe.com today:

• Crucial debate in presidential race tonight: While President Obama needs to display the urgency he lacked in the first debate, Mitt Romney is hoping to build on his momentum of the past 10 days. Globe politics reporter Matt Viser details.

• Record hauls by Elizabeth Warren, Scott Brown: Warren received $12.12 million and Senator Brown collected $7.45 million over the last three months, ensuring the race will remain among the nation's most expensive. Globe politics reporter Noah Bierman and business reporter Erin Ailworth write.

• United States, incorporated: How bad would America's ledgers look if we really were a company? And what could a CEO do to turn it around? Globe columnist Farah Stockman elaborates.

• In step with the Arnold apology tour: The saga of Arnold Schwarzenegger shows that what makes a man a great politician and a personal scumbag are often the very same qualities. Globe columnist Joanna Weiss reports.

• Rep. Tierney continues to express optimism: US Rep. John Tierney says the "outlook is good" even as signs show GOP challenger Richard Tisei surging ahead in the Sixth District race. Globe reporter Eric Moskowitz and business reporter Erin Ailworth cover. 

• Romney's likability improves as race remains tight, polls show: Mitt Romney is now viewed favorably by a majority of likely voters as polls nationally and in 10 battleground states show him in a virtual tie with President Obama. Globe correspondent Callum Borchers outlines. 

• Sandra Fluke to campaign with Elizabeth Warren today as candidates roll out big names: As Election Day nears, Senator Scott Brown and Democratic challenger Elizabeth Warren are being joined on the campaign trail by prominent people whose message dovetails with their own. Boston.com politics editor Glen Johnson reports.