President Obama’s relations with Senate Democratic leaders are deteriorating along with his poll numbers.

◼ White House kept Democratic senators hanging on the phone - The Hill

Obama, focused on winning a second term, has distanced himself from Congress altogether, at times not making the distinction between Republicans and Democrats on Capitol Hill....The White House has had to rely on (Harry) Reid because, unlike former President Clinton, Obama has little appetite for regularly calling Democratic lawmakers.

“I think one of the problems with the White House is that it’s been too set apart. It’s been too Chicago-centric, and it needs to get out,” said Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.).

...as Democratic lawmakers near a tough election, rank-and-file members feel less inclined to stand close to Obama. Sen. Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), who is seeking a second term in 2012, said she would not join Obama for a public appearance in Missouri on Tuesday, citing the Senate’s busy schedule. One Democratic aide, whose boss is facing reelection in a swing state, said of Obama: “There are no coattails.”

Republicans will capture control of the Senate if they net four seats in 2012 (three if Obama loses). The map favors the GOP; Democrats are defending 23 seats, Republicans only 10.

◼ Meanwhile, Obama heads to St. Louis for for a pair of fundraisers, including a reception at the Renaissance Grand Hotel that begins an hour after the first pitch of Tuesday's game. After his downtown reception, Obama will head to a $25,000-a-person dinner - stltoday