AEI‘s November Political Report (not online) shows the following historical trend in Gallup/USA Today polls. The current 38-53 split is the worst the GOP has faced, but it is neither number is far from the historical average. Some pundits see a Republican rebound. This bounce may continue if more people see stories like this.

If the Election Were Held Today

 

Rep. 

Dem. 

Oct. 20-22, 2006 

 38

 53

 Oct. 2002

 41

 50

 Oct 1998

 44

 47

Oct. 1994 

 45

 49

 Oct. 1990

 45

 55

 Oct. 1986

 35

 44

 Sept. 1986

 40

 54

 Oct. 1982

42 

 52

Note: All samples are registered voters except the October 1986
(national adults) and the October 1982 (likely voters).