About the Race

ANALYSIS: It's the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to the rescue in Indiana's 3rd Congressional District, where U.S. Rep. Mark Souder is fighting for his eighth term. Had it not been for the gale-force winds blowing in House Republicans' faces this cycle, Souder likely would not have to worry about his seat. After all, President Bush won a whopping 68 percent of the vote here in 2004. But Souder hasn't proven himself to be a strong fundraiser, taking in less than $800,000 this cycle. That's left the door open for national Democrats, who have reserved advertising time in the Fort Wayne-area district. Souder had a surprisingly difficult time knocking off physician Thomas Hayhurst in 2006, and he's now going to have to fight to retain his seat again this cycle against attorney Mike Montagano.