Where other pollsters conducted random calls to likely voters, Rasmussen attempted to forecast the demographic composition of the electorate, refusing to believe that minority turnout would be as high as poll responses were showing. As a result, it weighted its results to show a lower minority turnout.

Criticism of Rasmussen, however, serves as hollow consolation for Walker supporters. If anything, the critiques of the firm’s methodology have held that it consistently overestimates Republican support by neglecting voters more likely to vote for Democrats, including low-income and young voters.

The poll will no doubt be used by both sides to inspire their forces. For Democrats, it is evidence that Burke has a shot in November and makes the case that her campaign is worth the investment of time from volunteers and money from donors.

For Republicans, results could serve as a wake-up call. Walker's rabid supporters and Rolodex of big donors can't take the election for granted and must work hard to protect the conservative policies he has pushed through in the past three years.