Many people across the nation are following a close Senate primary race in the state of Missouri. Today, voters head to the polls to determine the GOP nominee for the senate. The choice voters make could have a huge impact on Claire McCaskill, the incumbent Democrat’s prospects for re-election and the overall balance of the Senate.

McCaskill has been considered a very vulnerable Democrat up for re-election to the Senate. Missouri has become increasingly more conservative since her election six years ago by just a very thin margin. Opponents have targeted her for supporting the President Obama’s stimulus bill and healthcare reform. Overall, voters will probably not support Obama in the state and McCaskill’s association with the president might be enough for her opponent to win. She also irked taxpayers when she charged the state for flying around Missouri in a plane that she co-owns.

Despite the difficulties McCaskill is experiencing, there is not a clear cut front runner in the GOP primary race. Sarah Steelman the former Treasurer of the state and Todd Akin a state legislator are trying to overtake John Brunning a businessman who is leading the race.

The GOP contest that has been prolonged has given the incumbent McCaskill a great deal of time to hone her campaign message and raise more money. She has also been able to inject her influence into the GOP contest.

Most believe that if Brunner wins, he poses the worst threat for McCaskill’s re-election. He is casting himself as the new political outsider that has a strong background in business. He also has used over $7 million of his own money to help his campaign.