The Fifth District Race

I'm a little late on reporting this, but I thought it was something I should post on. The Cook Political Report came out with a chart of what they believe to be the most competitive U.S. House races for 2008. From what they say, it looks like Connecticut is going to play a big role in the next election, just like it did in 2006.


There are five categories that they use and they are, Likely Democratic or Republican, Leans Democratic or Republican, and toss-up. Congressman Chris Shays' (R-4) race is listed as Leans Republican. Congressman Joe Courtney's (D-2) race is listed as Likely Democratic. This makes much sense as Shays' challenger, Jim Himes, has been running a very impressive campaign, and Courtney's challenger, Sean Sullivan, is not that impressive.


Now onto the race that we care about the most, the fifth district. Incumbent Democratic Congressman Chris Murphy is running against Republican State Senator David Cappiello. Right now the contest ranks as Likely Democratic. This doesn't come as much of a surprise as Murphy has had very impressive fundraising numbers, and establishing a true base, which has the state Democrats determined to keep the seat. Cappiello's numbers were pretty impressive as well, but nothing compared to Murphy. He does have hope from the state and national Republicans, as they will focus on keeping Shays' seat, and trying to take back the fifth district. Don't look for much action in the second district.


The fact that the fifth district race is listed, is yet just another sign that it should be a good one. We are more than a year away from the election, and it is already shaping up to be another goodie.