Nathan Deal released another commercial today citing Karen Handel’s alleged past support of gay issues. Deal, a former congressman, and Handel, former Secretary of State, face off Aug. 10 in the runoff to see who will be the Republican nominee for Georgia governor.

The commercial, a 30-second spot entitled “Straw,” hit YouTube this morning. Its release coincides with the announcement that former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin will speak at a Handel campaign rally on Aug. 9 – one day before the runoff.

GOP gubernatorial candidate Nathan Deal beats a dead (gay) horse

The commercial also comes one day after a federal judge overturned California’s Proposition 8, a state constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage. That case is likely to eventually reach the U.S. Supreme Court.

In the commercial, Deal cites Handel’s past support of gay partner benefits and gay youth organization YouthPride. Handel has been adamant since well before the general election that she does not support any gay issues (at least during this election) and would even consider banning gay adoptions if elected.

As both GOP candidates sling mud at the other in the final days of the runoff campaign, Democrat Roy Barnes, winner of his party’s July primary, has to be the sole beneficiary regardless of who wins the runoff on the other side.

To view the commercial, check out the video below: