COLUMBIA - Don't expect the gloves to come off as the six Republican hopefuls for U.S. Senate debate at Furman University today.

Candidates say they'll stick to their issues on the economy and national security, but still reserve the right to point out their differences as they try to break out from the pack.

Political observers say it's best to play it safe, for now, while voters get to know the crowded field of GOP candidates seeking to replace retiring Democratic Sen. Ernest "Fritz" Hollings.

"It's one thing to draw distinctions and to compare yourself to the other candidates, but if you step over the line and become really negative and nasty in your attacks, voters in the last couple of elections have really not responded very well to that," said Furman political scientist Danielle Vinson.

The debate will be televised at 7 p.m. on WSPA-TV in Spartanburg, cable channel 7 in some areas served by Comporium's cable system.

Former Gov. David Beasley, U.S. Rep. Jim DeMint, former Attorney General Charlie Condon, Myrtle Beach Mayor Mark McBride, Charleston real estate developer Thomas Ravenel and Bluffton businesswoman Orly Benny Davis are seeking the GOP Senate nomination.

"He doesn't need to attack anybody," said Brett Terry, campaign manager for McBride. "I do think it's important for him to point out if a candidate's been consistent or inconsistent on certain things."

The candidates also are anticipating jockeying for a spot in a possible runoff after the June 8 primary.

"They need to get their name out, they need to differentiate themselves and yet they need to not alienate the supporters of their opponents," said Winthrop University political scientist Scott Huffmon.

The race has the potential to get hot as candidates attempt to draw the early front-runner status away from Beasley and Condon, who have held statewide office.

"We've just been putting the issues out consistently week after week," said Condon's spokeswoman Christy Fargnoli. "I wouldn't necessarily say he has a target on his back, although he might."

Beasley is looking forward to a strong debate on the issues, his campaign spokesman Randy Page said. "We think that can be done in a very positive way."

Beasley took a swing at "Washington politicians" in his first television ad that hit the airwaves on Tuesday.

The 30-second spot shows Beasley standing on the floor of an abandoned factory and laments the loss of jobs to companies overseas, saying: "It's unfair trade and Washington politicians (who) are letting it happen."

Beasley also touts the creation of 110,000 jobs during his one term as governor.

DeMint and Condon also have TV ads running.

Superintendent of Education Inez Tenenbaum and former police officer Ben Frasier are seeking the Democratic nomination.