The Hill News

Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) said he was worried about GOP candidates taking a "victory lap" in the final week of the campaign.

McCain, the party's 2008 standard-bearer as its presidential nominee, admonished Republican candidates not to let up in their challenges to Democrats.

"I don't know, because I'm a little worried about some of my Republican friends who are taking a victory lap ahead of time," McCain said when asked if the GOP can pick up the seats it needs to win back the Senate on Nov. 2.

The Arizona senator, who's up for re-election himself next Tuesday, expressed more measured optimism than he had just two months ago, when he said Republicans could win back the Senate.

McCain! said Tuesday to expect a late night next week, with the battle for the Senate possibly extending into Wednesday if some races are especially close. McCain said in particular that he expected control of the Senate to hinge on two races, in California and Washington state, where Republicans are working to unseat Sen. Barbara Boxer (D) and Sen. Patty Murray (D).

The GOP needs a net-gain of 10 Seats to attain a Senate majority. Many party leaders have expressed optimism about the party's chances, though they've also acknowledged that picking up that many seats could be an uphill climb.