Early this year, it seemed venture capitalist Chris Gabrieli would be tapped as the running mate of fellow Democrat Tom Reilly, the Democrat then favored to gain the party's gubernatorial nomination. But Reilly ended up picking another partner and Gabrieli ended up throwing his own hat in the ring. Now, of the three Democrats seeking the nomination to be decided September 19, Gabrieli is the one doing best against Republican Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey.

Still, no matter which Democrat wins the nomination, he will begin the general election campaign with a healthy lead. But in the latest Rasmussen Reports election poll of the race, Gabrieli's lead is largest, 47% to Healey's 27%, Mihos's 10%. In the Reilly match-up it's Reilly 40%, Healey 29%, Mihos 16%. With Deval Patrick as the Democrat of the trio, it's Patrick 39%, Healey 29%, Mihos 14% (see crosstabs).

In each match-up, at least 15% of voters aren't sure yet whom they'd vote for.

Patrick's support has dropped in the new poll while Gabrieli has gained ground. In our late June survey, the two were essentially even as Patrick attracted support from 43% of voters while Gabrieli was drawing 42%. Gabrieli now attracts a bit more support from Democratic voters than Patrick or Reilly do.

A plurality of Massachusetts voters (35%) see the economy as the most important election issue. Many also name the war in Iraq (22%).

Culturally, the survey data confirms just how far Massachusetts is from Kansas. Seventy percent (70%) of voters here are pro-choice on the abortion issue; 51% say marriage should be defined as a union between any two adults, not just a man and a woman (47%); and only 22% believe the Bible is literally true.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members only.