Silver rates four seats in the West as competitive or toss-ups: Montana, which is held by a Democratic incumbent (Tester), and Nevada, held by a Republican (Heller), are the toss-ups. He believes New Mexico, which leans Democrat, and Arizona, which leans Republican, are competitive. Both are open seats.
The only other seat even slightly competitive in Silver’s view is an open seat in Washington, which he labels likely Democratic.
California, Utah and Wyoming incumbents are rated safe.
Silver and I agree (see blog of May 15). As he points out, the presidential race in the respective states could make a difference. A Mitt Romney strong showing in Montana or Nevada will likely help the Republican Senate candidates, as would a strong Barack Obama win in Nevada or New Mexico help the Democrats.
See:
The Buzz: November contests throughout the West: Arizona, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico and Washington
New York Times blog – FiveThirtyEight: Democrats’ odds of retaining Senate improve
The Buzz: Republican Party still purging its best establishment candidates
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