Senators Lieberman and Conrad to give GOP big boost in 2012

Senator Kent Conrad, a Democrat from North Dakota and Senator Joe Lieberman, an Independent from Connecticut, have dealt a blow to Democrats’ faint hopes of keeping the majority in the Senate after the 2012 election.

Conrad announced Tuesday he will not run for reelection, and Lieberman, an Independent who caucuses with Democrats, is expected to announce the same Wednesday afternoon.

Democrats have to defend 23 Senate seats next year, while the GOP only has 10 up for grabs. Republicans need a net gain of at least three seats to take control of the upper chamber.

More here.