In the race for governor of Illinois, Blagojevich continues to lead Judy Barr Topinka. This race is considered to be somewhat of a toss-up due to questions about Blagos ethics and financial stewardship, among other things. The results continue to be promising. More below the fold.
Date... Blag. Topinka
Aug 7... 45% 37%
Jul 6..... 45% 34%
Apr 18... 38% 44%
Mar 27... 41% 43%
Feb 22... 42% 36%
Jan 25... 37% 48%
From Rasmussen:
The power of incumbency is not necessarily paving an easy road to re-election for Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. The most recent Rasmussen Reports election survey of 500 likely voters in Illinois shows the governor leading State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka 45% to 37% (see crosstabs). That's little changed from his lead of 45% to 34% in last month's poll.
Blagojevich's lukewarm numbers have remained largely unchanged since July's survey. Just 48% of Illinois voters have a favorable opinion of the Governor, including just 12% with a "very" favorable opinion. Twice as many, 25%, hold a "very" unfavorable opinion of the incumbent.
Normally, such results would alarm any Governor. However, Blagojovich is blessed with a challenger whose unpopularity matches his own. Only 8% of those surveyed say they have a "very" favorable opinion of Topinka while 24% report a "very" unfavorable view of the candidate. Overall, 43% of Illinois voters have at least a somewhat favorable opinion of Topinka.
Taking a look at the issues of greatest importance to Illinois' voters, the economy (37%), the war in Iraq (19%) and national security (14%) are the top three responses.