Oregon gubernatorial race updated to 'toss-up,' with potential for GOP win

The Oregon governor's race, which Republicans haven't won in roughly 40 years, is now a "tossup," according to a new analysis from the University of Virginia. 

The updated analysis, or handicapping, moves the race from "Leans Democrat" and was conducted by Sabato's Crystal Ball, at the university's Center for Politics.

Crystal Ball also moved gubernatorial races in Arizona, Kansas, Nevada and Wisconsin in that direction, which means Republicans, now with about 18 weeks before the November elections, have a better likelihood of winning.  

Respected handicapper Larry Sabato and his team also point out the Oregon race is between three candidates who are all recent members of the state legislature.

Democratic Gov. Kate Brown is leaving office and viewed by voters as "deeply unpopular," according to Crystal Ball handicappers.

Republican candidate Christine Drazan was the state House minority leader while her Democratic opponent, Tina Kotek, served as state House speaker, and the independent candidate, Betsy Johnson, is a former Democrat and state senator. 

"Oregon's gubernatorial race is the best pick-up opportunity for Republicans in the country this year because Christine Drazan is the best candidate in this race," Drazan Communications Director John Burke told The Daily Wire. "This rating change and the multiple polls showing Christine leading both of her ... opponents are proof that she is well positioned to win and make history this November."

Drazan was endorsed by Democrat George Carrillo, who lost his party's gubernatorial primary election. He is a veteran of the Marine Corps and a former sheriff's deputy.