Another Senate seat may be in jeopardy, from an unexpected place. RealClearPolitics reports that the latest Rasmussen Poll shows John Raese has closed the gap on Governor Joe Manchin in the race to fill the seat of the late Robert Byrd in West Virginia. Raese, a businessman has moved to within 6 points of the better-known Democratic governor, 48-42%.
This race could end up being the battle of two trends. 70% of voters approve of the job Governor Manchin is doing, but 70% disapprove of the job President Barack Obama is doing. If Raese can show that Manchin is going to b supporter of the Obama agenda, he has a real chance of taking this seat for the Republicans. Manchin will try to paint himself as an independent vote in Washington.
The unexpectedly-close nature of this race could wind up having national ramifications. Republicans need ten seats in the Senate to take control. While analysts widely rate this as unlikely, the chances seem to be increasing.
Tags: 2010 Election, Democrats, Joe Manchin, John Raese, Republicans, Senate, West Virginia
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