The turnout story so far in Massachusetts: surging turnout in congressional districts like the 10th (Perry vs. Keating) and the 4th (Bielat vs. Frank). The passion over Congress is so high that it appears the governor’s race is essentially just coming along for the ride. That’s very unusual in a state where the only elected Republican is usually the governor.
This reversal is actually good news for Charlie Baker, who’s been in a close race but has yet to pass Gov. Deval Patrick in a single published poll. Patrick needs turnout in the cities, but the most competitive and high-profile races are in the ’burbs.
Right now, it looks like Baker’s going to ride into the Corner Office on the backs of the GOP congressional candidates.