[StBernard] Kennedy Pulls Within Five Points!

[Westley Annis]

Folks,

By now you've probably heard rumors about a campaign polling memo that shows
this race is too close to call. We're happy to report that the rumors are
true - John Kennedy has closed the gap on Mary Landrieu to just five points!
You can read the full memo below.

And we've got more breaking news for you - The National Republican
Senatorial Committee (NRSC) confirmed today that they are staying in this
race. 

But folks, we've still got a lot of hard work ahead of us. Over the next 18
days, Mary Landrieu will do everything she can to smear John Kennedy's
record. That's why we need your support now more than ever.


MEMORANDUM TO KENNEDY LEADERSHIP

FROM:           WES ANDERSON

DATE:            10/17/08

RE:                 THE RACE IS CLOSING - HEADED TO PHOTO FINISH

 

We are closing fast and hard!!!  Now is the time to step on the gas.  It's
imperative that we do not get greatly outspent in the closing weeks.

 

Methodology

 

The following survey was conducted by OnMessage Inc.  The survey was
conducted via telephone interviews between October 14-16.  Interviews were
stratified by Parish to reflect historic voter turnout during presidential
elections.  The survey consists of 500 likely voters.  The margin of error
is +/- 4.3%

 

Key Findings:

.       As voters begin to focus more closely on their decisions in this
election, the numbers are tightening each day.  We have closed to just a
five point gap at 47% Landrieu, 42% Kennedy with 11% still undecided.  This
represents a five point improvement over the last 10 days.  

 

.       Our polling has had Senator Landrieu UNDER 50% since October 5th. Of
course, no incumbent wants to go into Election Day with any number under 50%
as the lion's share of undecided voters always go to the challenger.

 

.       Based on the increasing momentum over the past week and these
current numbers, it is our estimation that the race is currently too close
to call.  That said, it will of course be crucial that we continue to raise
money at a furious pace as Senator Landrieu is certain to be spending
millions over the final two weeks.

 

.       Currently, 68% of all voters say they have seen TV commercials from
both candidates.  Among those voters we now lead Landrieu 44% to 41%.  This
is clear evidence that our message is working and moving voters our way.  

 

Please understand this - regardless of the talking points that the national
Democrats in Washington or the Landrieu campaign put out - they know full
well that this is a very tight race.  They will pull out all the stops and
throw in everything they have.  They know this is going to come down to a
point or two either way.

 

It is becoming increasingly clear that voters in Louisiana are demanding
change in Washington, and as they focus on the election they are realizing
that there will be no change if we keep sending the same folks up there.