Delaware Republican Mike Castle has dropped below 50% support for the first time in Rasmussen's polling of the Senate race. The new survey (July 14, 500 LV, MoE +/- 4.5%), released today, found Castle leading Democrat Chris Coons by 11 points in the race for Vice President Biden's former Senate seat.

Castle 47
Coons 36
Und 11

Castle's lead decreased since April by more than half, as his support dipped 8 points while Coons notched up 4 points. The new poll indicates the race may end closer than many expected, with Castle considered the heavy favorite since Attorney General Beau Biden (D) opted against running.

New fundraising reports due yesterday showed Castle holding a large cash-on-hand advantage ($2.6 million to $950,000), though Castle outraised Coons by just $140,000 in the second quarter.

RCP rates this race Likely Republican.