BostonGlobe.com Political Headlines - September 24, 2012

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

• First debate called critical for Mitt Romney: After a month of missteps and missed opportunities, the GOP presidential candidate faces three debates in the national spotlight that could bolster or bury his chances. Globe Metro reporter Brian MacQuarrie writes.

• Governor Patrick criticizes Mitt Romney for remarks: Patrick accused the GOP presidential nominee of "turning his back on half the country" after video emerged last week of Romney criticizing people who do not pay federal income taxes. Globe correspondent Callum Borchers reports.

• Sen. John Kerry starts campaigning for Senate hopeful Elizabeth Warren: The Senator is faced with the delicate task of supporting Warren while not disaffecting his colleague Senator Brown. Globe politics editor Glen Johnson details.