Poll: Scott Brown 49, Elizabeth Warren 40

Among the 52% of respondents who identified themselves as independent, 60% supported Mr. Brown while only 28% supported Ms. Warren.

The survey suggests there’s a reason independent voters favor the Massachusetts senator. And it has to do with the perception of Ms. Warren as a liberal Democrat. When asked what word first came to mind when respondents heard the name Elizabeth Warren, “liberal” was a top reply. On the other hand when asked what came to mind when they heard the name Scott Brown, “independent” and “fair/fair person” were among the top responses.

Mr. Brown is working hard to earn both those titles. He even invoked the name of late-Sen. Ted Kennedy in the most recent debate over whether religious institutions should be forced to provide contraception services to employees.