Many Republicans saw a chance to gain a Senate seat in Louisiana against incumbent Democrat Senator, Mary Landrieu. There was talk that Landrieu was in a serious political fight with about a 50% chance she would lose her re-election bid. However, this poll can’t be very encouraging to the state GOP and others around the nation that saw a decent chance to win.

The survey, taken 5/17-20 by the Mellman Group on Landrieu’s behalf, polled 600 likely voters for a margin of error of +/- 4%. Landrieu and State Treasurer John Kennedy, the likely Republican nominee, were tested.General Election MatchupLandrieu……..49 (+1 from last, 12/07)Kennedy……..33 (-2)

Many national Republicans no doubt hoped to play off a Bobby Jindal landslide win and have the wind at their backs with a state looking to go red. But Kennedy is an ex-Democrat himself (an economic populist at that) which may make it harder for GOP voters to truly understand what they are getting. Landrieu on the other hand, has enjoyed success and popularity in Louisiana for her response to Katrina and pushing the federal government for assistance in-spite of the state government (Democrats) getting booed out of power. Everyone knows that the GOP is in damage control right now and will exploit every opportunity they see for any possible victories. Thus far Kennedy has raised a considerable amount of money and national Republicans are very likely to dump all they can in this race despite any polls showing setbacks. This seat was targeted early last year for a possible win and I see no reason why the strategy for victory will change.