Poll: Reid in trouble; Murray next?

Republicans are fighting among themselves in Nevada. While it would appear a positive development for democrats in that state, it isn't. Prospective republican candidates are licking their chops at the opportunity of running against Senator Harry Reid, who is up for re-election next year.

Reid is the Senator Majority Leader for the democratically-held U.S. Senate and his race may be an indicator of the difficulties that lie ahead next year for democrats in general.

A recent poll from the Las Vegas Review-Journal shows Reid trailing potential challenger Rep. Dean Heller, who has indicated he will NOT run.

When poll respondents were asked about their views on Reid himself, 37 percent recognized Reid favorably and 50 percent were unfavorable.

However, Reid plans to raise nearly $25 million for his re-election campaign -- an election that takes place more than a year from now and he can expect help from national interests as well. In addition, democrats can expect support from President Obama, who maintains favorable ratings.

Democrats appear strong in other states including our own. According to polls conducted this year, long-time incumbent Senator Murray appears strong for next year's race. Her favorable numbers are over 50 percent and unfavorable only in the mid-30s. When she is pitted against specific republicans (Reichert, McKenna), her lead is in the double digits.