Republicans Take Big Lead in Generic Ballot Test

And the numbers keep coming in big for Republicans, mostly due to a major disconnect from the Democratic Party to the American people. This week’s latest generic congressional ballot test polling numbers from Rasmussen Reports, shows Republicans with a big lead:

Republican candidate for congress: 42%
Democrat candidate for congress: 37%

Republican numbers have been between 41% and 44% in the generic ballot test since June vs. 36% to 40% for Democrats. Independents by a significant margin favor the theoretical GOP candidate over the theoretical Democrat one by 40% to 23%.

Again, with most voters showing they have not accepted the agenda of the Democratic Party, as manifested in these ongoing generic ballot test numbers, Republicans have an opportunity around the country, with or without leadership's help (Michael Steele is viewed favorably by only 39% of Republicans, a number he could and should improve on) to sieze on the voter discontent we see around the nation.

How does a candidate do this? By coming out early as the "spokesperson" for their respective district or state, a candidate can identify with the unhappy voters on key issues. By touring their district or state and holding forums, candidates can show they are listening to the voters rather than pushing an agenda on them.

More importantly, candidates can begin offering a positive alternative agenda from the liberal, Nancy Pelosi-controlled congress. Voters respond to positive messages, particularly those that contrast so nicely with the liberal lurch to the left we are witnessing right now. If a GOP candidate finds his or her "voice", they will see resonance with the voters and have an opportunity to build early momentum. This can be a winning strategy especially if the candidate is locked in a tough primary. Primary voters will identify first with that candidate who reaches out to them as just described and start lining up behind their candidacy.

In a sense, the candidate needs to become the district or state's local Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity or Glenn Beck and lead an insurgency campaign against their incumbent Democrat. This is a good strategy even in open safe Republican seats that have healthy competition. If you want to stand out, start differentiating yourself now and show you are the leader in the area on the issues that matter.

We'll have some pointers on how to go about communicating with use of cable TV, broadcast TV, radio, direct mail and digital media (online, email, texts, twitter, etc.) in future posts.