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**Written by Doug Powers

Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill announced a while back that she’ll skip the Democrat convention, ostensibly to remain in the state to campaign. According to the latest poll, however, McCaskill might better serve her campaign by getting away for a while:

Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.) trails all three of her potential Republican rivals, according to a new survey conducted for two Missouri news outlets, cementing her status as this cycle’s most vulnerable incumbent.

Businessman John Brunner (R) holds the largest advantage over McCaskill, leading by a 52 perent to 41 percent margin. Former state Treasurer Sarah Steelman (R) leads by a 49 percent to 41 percent margin. And Rep. Todd Akin (R) leads by a 49 percent to 44 percent margin.

McCaskill’s big problems come among independent voters. She scores just 40 percent among independents against Akin, and she’s mired in the mid-30s when she’s matched up with Brunner and Steelman.

McCaskill said she’s asked President Obama to come and campaign for her, but there’s little upside to that for either of them:

the poll shows Obama trails Mitt Romney by a 51 percent to 42 percent margin.

The odds are better that Jay Carney will name the capital of Israel before anybody is able to snap a photo of Obama and McCaskill together between now and November 6th.

**Written by Doug Powers

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