Palin Endorsement Could Hurt in November

Congressional candidates may want to think twice before soliciting the help of Sarah Palin on the campaign trail — that is, unless they’re running in a Republican primary. Nearly four-in-ten say they would be less inclined to vote for a congressional candidate supported by the former Alaska governor. Another four-in-ten say her support would make no difference, while 18% say Palin’s campaigning would make them more likely to support a congressional candidate. Among independents, roughly twice as many say they would be less likely to vote for a Palin-backed candidate (36%) as say they would be more likely (15%). About half of independents (47%) say Palin’s support would make no difference to their vote. Democrats overwhelmingly view Palin’s influence negatively; 58% say they would be less likely to vote for a candidate with Palin’s support. Still, Palin could help among the GOP faithful; 41% of Republicans say Palin’s help on the campaign would make them more likely to vote for a congressional candidate. Read More