BREAKING: Murphy pulls within 7 points of Tedisco

A poll commissioned by the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee puts political newcomer Scott Murphy (D-Glens Falls) within 7-points of Republican veteran Jim Tedisco (R-Schenectady).

The survey by the Benenson Strategy Group put Tedisco at 44%, with Murphy at 37%. Libertarian Eric Sundwall snagged 4%.

Perhaps the most telling statistic is the number of undecideds: 15% of voters in New York’s 20th Congressional district say they’re just not sure which way to go.

In a district that used to be iron-clad Republican, that’s not a good sign for Tedisco, who has enjoyed higher name recognition than Murphy.

It’s also not a good sign for the GOP candidate that he seems mired well below 50%.

One early poll, commissioned by Republicans, put Tedisco up 20 points. A survey by Siena College two weeks ago put the gap at 12%.

According to Politico, Republicans still see this race as a kind of test for their revival hopes in the Northeast:

Top Republicans, including House Minority Leader John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) and Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele, have made picking up the GOP-leaning 20th District their top political mission, steering money and donors to the race. Steele has been to the district twice, while Boehner is expected there soon. Former Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) and former New York Gov. George Pataki have also been involved.

Politico’s reporting suggests that Murphy has gained some traction with his attacks on Tedisco, who has refused to take an unequivocal stand on President Obama’s proposed stimulus package.

Just over 2 weeks to go…