Republican Senator Conrad Burns has closed the gap and is now just a couple points behind Democrat Jon Tester. The latest Rasmussen Reports poll in Montana finds Tester with 48% of the vote while Burns earns 46%. When "leaners" are included, Tester leads 49% to 46% (see crosstabs). Leaners are undecided voters who opt for a candidate when asked a follow-up question.

We are moving the race from “Leans Democrat” "Toss-Up" column in our Senate Balance of Power summary.

Because of his relationship with indicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff and others under a cloud, Senator Burns is often seen as emblematic of GOP congressional corruption. Various gaffes, including his berating of firefighters fresh from combating a wildfire, haven't helped his bid either.

The race has often been close, but Tester has had the advantage on six of the last seven polls. The only exception came in August when we found the candidates tied at 47%.

Rasmussen Reports conducted the current survey October 18, the day after the two candidates participated in a televised debate. They clashed over tax cuts, political corruption and, most notably, the war in Iraq. Tester advocates withdrawal of U.S. troops. Burns says the U.S. must persist despite any changes in strategy that may be necessary.

Senator Burns has a higher unfavorable (53%) than favorable (45%) rating, and he is viewed "very unfavorably" by 36%. Tester is viewed favorably by 52% overall, "very unfavorably" by 24%.

Slightly more Burns supporters (65%) than Tester supporters (59%) say their vote is a positive one "for" their candidate rather than "against" the alternative.

Crosstabs available for Premium Members only.