Incumbent Republican Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison leads Democrat Barbara Ann Radnofsky 61% to 31% (see crosstabs). Last month, the incumbent enjoyed a 27-point advantage.

The most recent Rasmussen Reports survey of 500 Likely Voters conducted on August 3, 2006 shows Hutchison is viewed very favorably by 43% of the state’s voters. Radnofsky, with a much lower level of name recognition, is viewed very favorably by only 8%.

Hutchison recently voted for a bill that would make it illegal to take a pregnant girl across state lines for an abortion without parental knowledge. Though Hutchison supports this bill, Texans are relatively divided on the issue of abortion—44% claim to be pro-choice, 48% pro-life. Proposals for restrictions on abortion, such as increased parental notification, typically attract far more support than the general pro-life position.

Like Georgia, Alabama and Virginia, the economy ranked as the national issue of greatest importance (see crosstabs). Immigration, a continuous controversial issue in Texas, ranked as the second most important issue in the Lone Star State at 18%. Nationally, gaining control of the borders continues to be the top priority of American voters.

In terms of general elections, Texans overwhelmingly believe a photo-ID should be required to vote. Fifty-eight (58%) percent say ballots should be printed in English-only, while 40% believe ballots should be in English and Spanish. Nationally, support for English only ballots is even higher.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members only.