This gubernatorial race has tightened since we last polled Massachusetts voters. But it’s hard to notice as Democrat Deval Patrick leads Republican Kerry Healey 53% to 29% (see crosstabs). Our September survey showed Patrick thumping Healey 57% to 24%.

Independent candidate Christy Mihos, once considered a potentially formidable factor in the race, draws only 11%. Only 5% are still undecided.

Departing Republican Governor Mitt Romney endorsed Lieutenant Governor Healey to succeed him. But despite the blessing, she was never in a strong position. A reversal of fortune at this late stage would require more than a couple hat tricks.

As we've recalled before, Massachusetts ain't Kansas. It's a heavily Democratic state. And the last couple of years have gone badly for GOP throughout the land, not just in blue states.

Sixty percent (60%) of Massachusetts voters register "strong disapproval" of the job President Bush is doing. Healey is not quite so disliked, but only 35% view her favorably.

Healey may have swayed a few voters with ads attacking Patrick for helping get a convicted killer off death row when he was a private attorney. Patrick later served as an assistant attorney general for civil rights in the Clinton Administration. If elected he would be the state's first black Governor.

In Massachusetts, a plurality of 37% say the terrorists are winning the War on Terror. Only 27% say the U.S. and its allies are winning.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members only.