In the latest Rasmussen Reports survey of Alabama's gubernatorial race, Governor Bob Riley (R) now enjoys a twelve-point lead over Democratic Lt. Governor Lucy Baxley, 49% to 37% (see crosstabs).

In early April, the incumbent led 47% to 40%.

Riley leads another potential Democratic challenger, Don Siegelman, 59% to 32%. Though the governor only narrowly defeated Siegelman in the 2002 election, his much improved position is unsurprising: Siegelman is currently on trial for racketeering charges.

The trial is expected to continue until around the time of the primary, June 6, which would give voters little time to amend their opinions of the Democrat if he is exonerated. Siegelman claims the charges are politically motivated.

The GOP nomination is also being pursued by former Alabama Supreme Court Chief Justice Roy Moore. Moore, who earned notoriety by defying a judicial order to remove a Ten Commandments monument from the state Supreme Court building, is a long shot. But the Democratic nominee must hope he wins. Moore trails Baxley by seven points and he leads Siegelman by only a single point.

Governor Riley is viewed favorably by 69%. Baxley is viewed favorably by 58%, Moore by 52%.

Siegelman is viewed favorably by 41%, unfavorably by 55%; 31% have a Very Unfavorable view of him.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) of Alabama voters say tax increases hurt the economy, 56% say tax cuts help the economy.

Fifty-five percent (55%) say all immigrants should be welcome except criminals, national security threats, and those who would live off welfare; 28% disagree. Seventy-three percent (73%) think that before policymakers tackle further immigration reform, the country should first secure her borders and enforce existing law.

Fifty percent (50%) say all illegal aliens should be forced to leave the country; 29% disagree. Sixty-two percent (62%) don't think children of illegal aliens should receive citizenship automatically.

Rasmussen Reports now releases data for a three-poll rolling average on our state election polls. Used in conjunction with individual survey results, this tool helps determine whether shifting poll results are due to changes in the race or are merely statistical noise.

The three-poll rolling average for March, April, and May shows Riley leading Baxley 48% to 39%. That's unchanged from a month ago. He leads Siegelman 54% to 37% in the three poll average.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members.