Joe Manchin: The Richard Blumenthal of West Virginia

As another vaccany appears for Democrats with the death of Sen. Byrd, an political novice would expect the national Democrats to be panicking. However, this seat is turning out much lke that of CT; when Chris Dodd retired, a popular DEm, Richard Blumenthal, came forth and is now considered a shoo-in to hold Dodd's seat. But CT is a very blue state; one would expect some like that to happen, the Democrats would undoubtedly have other strong contenders on the bench to replace Dodd, right? Well, yes, however, this could happen in red states too!
As soon as Byrd died the GOP was eyeing this seat that Democrats had held for 69 of the last 75 years. Enter Joe Manchin, West Virginia's Democratic governor. In 2008, Manchin was reelected with 70% percent of the vote. Moreover, he has astronomical approval ratings which hoover in the mid-70's. Because of Manchin's leadership, WV IS NOT in the red like most other states in the union.
In short, Manchin is the favorite to win this race and hold the seat for Democrats. His prime oppostion would likely come from WV's sole GOP Congressman, Rep. Shelley Moore Capito, who has yet to announce her candidcay. However, Capito is widely expected to make a run for the governor's mansion in 2012. Even then, Manchin enjoys a double-digit lead over Capito.

Possible Race Ratings:
Manchin vs Gen. Rep = Safe Democrat
Manchin vs Capito = Likely Democrat
Gen Dem vs Capito= Likely Republican