GOP GALLUPING – AT 7:51 P.M. ET:  Gallup's generic congressional preference survey is showing remarkable stability, with Republicans smiling.

Among likely voters, if the turnout is low, Gallup has Republicans chosen by 56%, Democrats by 39%.

Among likely voters, if the turnout is high, Gallup has Republicans chosen by 53%, Democrats by 42%.

Those numbers have been virtually unchanged for three weeks, possibly meaning that the electorate is becoming locked in place.  The numbers are spectacularly good for Republicans, whether in a low- or high-turnout scenario.

From 1950 through 1966, Republicans never got above 50%. 

The prospects are good, but remember that races are run one by one.  We have reason to be cautiously optimistic.

October 18, 2010