From TPM Election Central:
The presidential race really could not be closer in the key swing states, according to a new round of Rasmussen polls, with ties in two states and near-ties in three others — though on balance it’s decent news for John McCain:
• In Colorado, McCain has a 48%-46% edge, within the ±4.5% margin of error. Last week, Obama was up 49%-46%, within the margin of error.
• In Florida, McCain is up 49%-44%, with a ±4.5% margin of error. Last week, it was a 48%-48% tie.
• In Ohio, McCain has a narrow 48%-45% lead, within the ±4.5% margin of error. Last week, McCain was ahead 51%-44%. This is the third poll today that gives McCain a lead in Ohio — so we’re inclined to think he’s ahead.
• In Pennsylvania, it’s a 47%-47% tie. Last week, Obama had a 47%-45% lead, within the margin of error.
• And in Virginia, it’s a 48%-48% tie. Last week, Rasmussen had McCain up 49%-47%, within the margin of error.
Only one of these states, Pennsylvania, went for Kerry in 2004. So what we have here is the GOP playing some serious defense in four states they’ve previously won — and the Dems having to work just as hard to hold on to a big prize of their own.
