Hillary Leads in South Carolina

As we Democrats know, the South is a challenging region of the country for us to lead in. Much discussion has taken place here at KOS, as well as in many other blogs on the issue of which candidate will have the advantage in the South. While it is certainly still early, the latest South Carolina poll is telling. Rasmussen today reports a sizeable lead for Hillary in this state. She leads over Obama, who until recently was the perceived favorite here.

Rasmussen Poll (telephone survey among likely Democratic Primary Voters):

Clinton:    38%
Obama:    30%
Edwards:  13%
Biden:        3%
Richardson:  2%

Clinton also leads in the New Hampshire and Florida primaries.

In my opinion, I think this is due at least in part to:

Her favorability increasing as more people see her and learn more about her;
Her strong showing in the debates;
Her optimistic AND realistic tone in her appearances and speeches;
Her perception as a candidate with strong leadership skills and ability to most effectively assume the role of Commander in Chief;
Her Campaign's effective Rapid Response and Communication Skills; and
Her strong support in the African American Community.

Among black voters, Clinton and Obama are even while Edwards support is virtually non-existent. However, among white voters, the picture looks entirely different--Clinton is on top while Edwards has twice the support of Obama.

Clinton is viewed favorably by 82% of Likely Primary voters, including 46% who have a Very Favorable opinion of the former First Lady. Fifteen percent (15%) have an unfavorable view.

http://www.rasmussenreports.com/...