THE OPPORTUNITY - AT 9:53 A.M. ET:  The latest Rasmussen poll of generic preferences shows the continuing opportunity available to the GOP in the upcoming congressional elections:

This summer brought a significant shift in voter preferences in the Generic Congressional Ballot. As Republican Congressional candidates once again lead Democrats by a 43% to 38% margin this week, this is now the ninth straight ballot the GOP has held a modest advantage.

Over the past nine weeks, Republicans have held a two-to-five point advantage over Democrats every week. It is important to note, however, that the recent shift is not only because Republicans have been gaining support, but that Democrats have slipped in support. While support for Republican candidates ranged from 41% to 43%, support for Democrats ranged from 37% to 39%. 

And...

Looking back one year ago, support was strikingly different for the parties. Throughout the summer of 2008, support for Democratic congressional candidates ranged from 45% to 48%. Republican support ranged from 34% to 37%.

COMMENT:  It's an opportunity, and only that.  Republicans must exploit it, and, critically important, learn to speak over the heads of the media directly to the American people.  That was one of Reagan's gifts, and it helped propel him to the White House.

The Obamans ran a brilliant campaign last year.  They can do it again.  Nothing is in the bag.

August 26, 2009