Charlie Cook just downgraded Maryland Senate race to...

[NHPolitico]

Blacks voted for him for LG because of his race and not his ideology. Will they do so for a federal race, too? I'm not sure. Black preachers have seemed to indicate that Steele has a lot more support among their congregations than normal Republicans, so they haven't attacked him from the pulpit like they normally do to Republican candidates.  If he were a Democrat, he would have won this race like Spitzer will win in New York. There is no doubt in my mind.  He's smart and charismatic and seems like a nice guy.  His only problem is the "R."

[NHPolitico]

FYI, Rasmussen has a poll out today with Cardin up 5, 50-45.  Still premium, though.

A rumor is that black people are telling pollsters (and each other) one thing, but planning to support Steele in the secrecy of the voting booth.  Don't be surprised if we're surprised on Election Night. Steele is apparently spending resources in Prince Georges County. He must think it makes sense.

[NHPolitico]

It would be very stupid for the black community in Maryland to elect someone who doesnt represent their interests just because they are black.

Blacks verifiably did this in the LG race, so it doesn't matter how stupid it is. This board is about voting behavior, regardless of our opinion of it.