The Cook Political Report on Thursday changed their rating of the 4th Congressional District race from "leans Republican" to "toss-up."

House editor David Wasserman explained in the Cook Political Report that Democratic candidate Betsy Markey "has finally gotten her campaign operation into shape" against incumbent U.S. Rep. Marilyn Musgrave (R-Fort Morgan).

Democratic strategists, Wasserman added, "also say she carries less baggage than 2006 nominee Angie Paccione, who came within three points of defeating Musgrave."

Another factor, Wasserman noted, is that presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama stands to do very well among CO-4 voters.

Meanwhile, private polls show Musgrave is "badly struggling," Wasserman said in his explanation.

However, Wasserman predicted the race would likely turn "very negative" with lots of involvement from outside groups and individuals.

Markey manager Anne Caprara said her campaign has "known the race has been competitive for a long time.

"But it's nice to get some outside validation," she added.

A Musgrave spokesperson did not immediately return a phone call and e-mail seeking comment Thursday afternoon.