Independents Turning Right

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By Sarah Gravlee

Story Published: Nov 16, 2009 at 7:31 PM MST

Story Updated: Nov 16, 2009 at 7:31 PM MST

BILLINGS - A new survey from MSU-Billings shows Senator Max Baucus's approval rating taking a big hit and more independent voters are leaning to the right.

Governor Brian Schweitzer has the highest approval rating with 62% of those polled having favorable opinion. Senator Jon Tester also has a positive 56% rating, about the same as Congressman Denny Rehberg's rating of 54%.

However, the survey shows a sharp decline for Baucus. Two years ago, his approval rating was at 64%, but this year's survey shows that has dropped by 20 points. Political scientist Craig Wilson said the change is likely due to Baucus's role in health care reform.

"I think he's in the unfortunate position of being at the center of the debate," Wilson said. "A debate that hasn't been settled yet, that's extremely contentious. A debate that's alienated some democrats, so this year's finding, I don't think it's indicative of what you'd see in 3-to-4 years."

To see the complete results of the survey, click here. The survey is conducted by students randomly polling more than 400 Montanans.

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