Ok, I was hoping to see this without using a diary (since I post so often; didn't want to use my one today) and the open thread is filled. But this Rasmussen poll is great news.
Phil leads Arnie!
"Survey of 500 Likely Voters
July 5, 2006
Election 2006: California Governor
Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) 44%
Phil Angelides (D) 46%
"Our first election poll here since California's June 6 primaries shows the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Phil Angelides, with a narrow lead of 46% to 44% over the incumbent.
"Our April survey had shown Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger opening up a substantial lead over the Democratic contenders, but by May the race had tightened once again. Immigration, health care and taxes are among the issues that have emerged in the campaign.
"Governor Schwarzenegger earns approval from 51% of the state's voters for the way he has handled his job. Forty-nine percent (49%) disapprove, including 26% who "strongly" disapprove.
"Fifty percent (50%) of California's likely voters Strongly Disapprove of the way President George W. Bush is doing his job."
As we often say, Rasmussen is a republican pollster (independent my ass) although his bias tends to filter out in races and mostly comes through in approval ratings, as with Arnie having a 51 percent positive rating.
So to have Phil up here after the recent polls have shown him down is a big deal. It means the bitter primary has faded and the early and often republiucan attack (they had ads out immediately here in LA, not sure about the rest of the state) has not worked.
Obviously Bush hatred is high here and that weighs down Gov. Secret Visit. But the unions, the special election and the assholeness of the current Gov. must all play a role. And we have really yet to campaign.
I must say, I am thrilled with this today. Given the even some local Air America hosts were saying June 6th -- the night of the primary -- "well, Angelides doesn't really have a chance," and even here on our beloved dKos, he has been dismissed, this news is water to a thirsty man.
And apparently it does not rain here in our new home, so I like the water.