[cross-posted from Blue Mass Group]

With a fundraising reporting deadline coming up on August 23, I wanted to fill MyDD readers in on the Congressional race in NH-02, where Democrat Paul Hodes is attempting to knock off Charlie "Catch and Release" Bass.  If you are so inclined, you may donate to Paul's campaign at the netroots ActBlue page.  [Or at the BMG Act Blue page! --ed.] [Sorry, should have mentioned that.  What happened to the link? -DaveMB]

The last poll on the race from UNH was disappointing, giving Bass a 53-25 lead.  This post, from a blogger named NH-02 Progressive, puts the most positive possible spin on the result.  The poll shows that Hodes' name recognition is still very bad, and that voters are not yet identifying Bass with Bush.  Hence, Hodes needs money -- he has a significant amount but needs DCCC help and a lot more donations.

Rahm Emmanuel just did a big fundraiser for Hodes in Boston and the people at Swing State Project are sounding a bit more excited about the race.  Some netroots money may help keep the momentum going.  If you are within driving distance of Keene and feel like canvassing, the Cheshire County Democrats are doing some there this Sunday.

An independent poll was conducted by the University of New Hampshire with relatively good news for Democrats as we try to knock out incumbent Republicans: (likely voters, MOE 6%)

NH-01
Jeb Bradley (R) 49%
Jim Craig (D) 33%
undecided 18%

Jeb Bradley (R) 52%
Gary Dodds (D) 29%
undecided 20%

NH-02
Charlie Bass (R) 42%
Paul Hodes (D) 35%
undecided 22%

Neither of these seats has been in the top tier, but it looks like NH-02 should be, especially since only 20% of likely voters are familiar with Paul Hodes.