NM-02: Cook Report Upgrades Race to "Toss Up" and "Top Tier Race"

The Harry Teague campaign reports that the Cook Political Report, an independent non-partisan publication that analyzes political campaigns, yesterday upgraded the Congressional race in NM-02 from "Lean Republican" to "Toss Up." Teague, the Democratic nominee, is running a strong race and presents the best chance for the Dems to retake the seat in 28 years.

The Cook Political Report upgraded the race citing Harry's ties to the Southern New Mexico and his strong record as a businessman, as well as GOP candidate Ed Tinsley's poor record as a Washington lobbyist. According to Cook (subscription only):

"Democrats say Tinsley's time spent advocating for the National Restaurant Association's interests in Washington will turn off rural southern New Mexico voters. While this district's conservatism should provide Tinsley a boost, insiders say he has run a less than perfect campaign.

... Meanwhile, Teague has tied his business credentials to the district's roots, emphasizing his direct experience with oil and the issue of energy. A Hamilton Campaigns poll taken in September for Teague's campaign showed the Democrat ahead 46 percent to 41 percent. Democrats may still have a better shot at picking up the politically friendlier 1st CD open seat, but this is now a top tier race as well."