With 42 days until the midterm elections, Republican Eric Schmitt maintains a double-digit lead over Democrat Trudy Bush Valentine in the race for Missouri’s US Senate seat. But recent polls show that Schmitt’s likely victory may be one of the only bright spots for the GOP. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

According to the most recent polling at 538.com conducted by SurveyUSA and sponsored by numerous media outlets throughout Missouri, including Springfield’s KYTV and Joplin’s KOAM TV, Schmitt maintains an 11-point lead over Bush Valentine. 47% for Schmitt to Bush Valentine’s 36%.

The poll was conducted from September 14 through the 18. Schmitt has maintained a lead over this Democratic opponent since the first poll was conducted the week after primary elections were held in Missouri in August.

Schmitt’s likely victory in November could be one of the only bright spots for the GOP. Models by 538.com predict that Democrats could widen their lead in the Senate by as many as 19 seats, giving them a 70/30 edge.

Editors for the website note that the GOP has selected weak candidates in key races such as Georgia, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Polling shows that Republicans have a slight advantage in taking back control of the house. For 89 9 KRPS, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro