A top political handicapper has shifted its rating for the Wisconsin Senate race to 'Toss Up' just weeks before the election. Wisconsin, a crucial battleground state in both the presidential and Senate contests, was previously categorized as 'Lean Democrat'.
The change in rating was prompted by recent polling data indicating a narrowing gap between the candidates, with Hovde gaining ground on Baldwin. Private polling from both campaigns also suggested a tight race within the margins of error.
Baldwin's internal polling reportedly aligns with this assessment. In response to the rating shift, Hovde's spokesperson highlighted Baldwin's perceived shortcomings, citing issues such as inflation, border security, and public safety as key concerns for Wisconsin voters.
The National Republican Senatorial Committee echoed these sentiments, criticizing Baldwin's alignment with the Biden administration and accusing her of concealing her partner's stock trades from constituents.
The most recent Marquette Law School poll showed Baldwin leading with 51% support compared to Hovde's 45%. The survey, conducted from September 18 to 26, interviewed 882 registered voters with a margin of error of +/-4.4 percentage points.
Prior to this rating adjustment, Wisconsin was previously categorized as 'Leans Dem' in the latest news Power Rankings. With this change, Wisconsin now joins other Senate races in Ohio and Michigan as 'Toss Up' contests.
