2 Weeks Out

10 THINGS YOU SHOULDN'T UNDERESTIMATE ABOUT THE STEELMAN-HULSHOF RACE OVER THE FINAL 14 DAYS

1. The perception within the political community that Hulshof's lead over Steelman is narrowing.

2. The free media attention Steelman will win from her statewide RV tour.

3. The voting "pad" the establishment will lend Hulshof come election day, particularly if turnout is low.

4. The influence that discrete but motivated "background" conversations will have on the beat reporters tracking and framing the race daily/hourly.

5. The Congressman's next big move.

6. How each candidate looks under studio lighting caked with make-up and how some voters won't be able to get passed it if one or both fail to make "the appearance" cut.

7. The growing consensus among Democrats that they would rather run against Hulshof this fall.

8. Farmers and the ethanol mandate.

9. The underwhelming feeling some leave with after hearing Steelman speak in public and Hulshof's rhetorical advantage in front of small crowds.

10. The KY3 debate audience.