In the race for Maryland Governor, Republican Governor Bob Ehrlich continues to lag behind his Democratic challenger, Baltimore Mayor Martin O'Malley, who now leads 49% to 42% (see Crosstabs). In our previous survey, O’Malley led 51% to 42%.

O'Malley's nomination as the Democratic standard-bearer is certain now that his opponent in the primary, Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan, has thrown in the towel.

In a June 22 announcement Duncan cited a diagnosis of clinical depression as his reason, and urged support for his erstwhile opponent. He thus scotched any hope harbored by the Ehrlich campaign that the incumbent might benefit from continued clashes between the two Democrats in the months leading up to the September 12 primary.

Ehrlich is viewed favorably by 55% of likely voters, unfavorably by 42%. O'Malley is viewed favorably by 58%, unfavorably by 36%.

Many more Maryland voters (50%) say they prefer a Democrat as our next President than prefer to see a Republican (31%).

But that holds true only when no feature of the next chief executive but party affiliation is known. When likely voters consider prospective candidates identified by name, Republicans prove more competitive. Details on match-ups among Republicans John McCain and Rudi Giuliani, and Democrats Hillary Clinton and Al Gore, are available to our Premium Members.

This polling pattern, too, is consistent with that of many other states. In Massachusetts, Democrats lead on the generic ballot but McCain edges both Clinton and Gore 44% to 43%.

Crosstabs are available to Premium Members. For the latest State Election results and issues of the day see our Elections Page and Politics Page.