In the latest Rasmussen Reports election poll of the Kansas gubernatorial race, Democratic Governor Kathleen Sebelius continues to enjoy healthy leads over the two Republicans with the best chance of facing her this fall.

Sebelius now leads former state House Speaker Robin Jennison 51% to 31%, a slight improvement for the governor since our last survey.

Sebelius leads State Senator Jim Barnett 49% to 36%. Again, close to what we saw last time.

Governor Sebelius is viewed favorably by 68% of likely voters, unfavorably by 30%. Jennison is viewed favorably by 36%; 34% don't know him well enough to voice an opinion. Barnett is viewed favorably by 40%, with 30% Not Sure as yet what to think of him.

The Republican field is crowded, with seven candidates are now vying for the GOP nomination, to be decided August 1. Among the issues being debated is the governor's willingness to sign a $541 million plan to finance publics schools—legislation, however, authored by Republicans. Republicans panjandrums have acknowledged that divisions in their party are helping the incumbent.

Fifty-one percent (51%) of Kansas voters approve of the job George W. Bush is doing as President; 48% disapprove, 36% strongly so. But 63% approve of the job Governor Sebelius is doing; 35% disapprove, and only 15% Strongly Disapprove.

Voters here tend to trust Republicans more than Democrats on most of the major issues we polled about.

Fifty percent (50%) trust the GOP more than Democrats on the economy, versus 40% who trust the Democrats more. The GOP has a 20% edge over Democrats on national security, and at least a 15% edge on immigration and Iraq. The Democrats are narrowly favored when it comes to energy policy.

Crosstabs are available to Premium Members. See our Politics Page and Elections Page for other State Election results and important issues of the the day.