http://edition.cnn.com/ELECTION/2006.../MD/index.html

Why is CNN and other networks all predicting a Cardigan win when he has less votes than Steele? What's going on?

Strange.

It's because they think the urban precints are still to be counted while the more rural Republican precints have already been counted.

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The universe grows smaller every day and the threat of aggression by any group anywhere can no longer be tolerated. There must be security for all or no one is secure... - Klaatu

I think it's wishful thinking on behalf of CNN. The large urban counties (montgomery, prince george's and Baltimore City) are mostly counted, at least if you believe CNN's data. I think that this race will likely come down to the absentee ballots. Historically, Republicans garner a larger share of the absentee votes. It'll be close.

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"My friends, we live in the greatest nation in the history of the world. I hope you'll join with me as we try to
change it." -- Barack Obama

Exit polls. If the exit polls aren't even close they'll usually call it as soon as the polls close. As you can see, they were accurate in making the call.

the "northern" suburbs are heavily dem.....

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Obama-e fungis nati homines....