GOP Sees Smoother Ride on Palin's Coattails

Congressional Republicans nervous about their own election chances are encouraged by the thought of a Sarah Palin-fueled boost to the GOP’s overall image, Real Clear Politics reports. Polls conducted since she was picked as John McCain’s running mate show a generic Republican congressional candidate trailing a generic Democrat by only 3.6%, narrowing a lead that has held at 12% or more since July.

Republicans say Palin’s unique character has proved engaging to voters who normally vote Democratic. "If you're the Republicans, you need to make the public take a second look at you this cycle," said Tom Cole, chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee. "The presidential campaign being as close and competitive has really helped us.”