Our latest survey of the race for Missouri Senate shows State Auditor Claire McCaskill (D) leading Senator Jim Talent (R) 43% to 40%.

Beginning with this survey, Rasmussen Reports will release data for a three-poll rolling average on our state election polls. Used in conjunction with individual survey results, this tool will help determine whether shifting poll results are due to changes in the race or are merely statistical noise.

The Missouri race remains hotly competitive, with our three-poll rolling average showing a 43% to 43% tie. During those 3 polls, McCaskill and Talent each had one survey result above the average, one below the average, and one matching the average. The previous three-poll rolling average showed the candidates tied at 45%.

All indicators point to a race that may remain close right up to Election Day.

Senator Talent, who won his seat in 2002 by defeating appointed incumbent Senator Jean Carnahan in a special election, is viewed favorably by 56% of respondents, unfavorably by 37%.

McCaskill is viewed favorably by 57%, unfavorably by 36%. McCaskill won the Democratic nomination for governor two years ago by defeating the incumbent governor, but went on to lose the general election to the Republican, Matt Blunt.

Senator Talent earns his highest level of support from those who strongly approve of the President's performance, McCaskill from those who strongly disapprove.

Forty-nine percent (49%) of Missouri voters believe it is too easy to get an abortion. The same percentage would support a legislative ban on abortion except when the life of the mother is at stake.

Visit our Election Polls page to see a summary of our latest state-by state polling. Rasmussen Reports is polling every Senate and Governors' race at least once a month this year.

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