A recent Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of Likely South Dakota voters found Senator John McCain with strong leads over both potential Democratic candidates in the election for president.

McCain leads Barack Obama 48% to 38% and Hillary Clinton 50% to 38%.

Clinton holds a two-point lead over McCain among female voters in the Mount Rushmore State. The two match-ups are essentially tied when it comes to unaffiliated voters. Among voters not affiliated with either major party, Clinton barely edges McCain 43% to 42%, while McCain are tied at 41%.

Obama leads McCain 52% to 43% among voters between the ages of 18 and 29.

McCain is viewed favorably by 61% and unfavorably by 36%. Obama’s numbers are 53% favorable and 45% unfavorable. Clinton earns positive reviews from 46% and negative reviews from 51%.

The economy is seen as the most important issue in the upcoming election for 40% of South Dakota voters. The War in Iraq comes in at a distant second with 19%. Clinton leads McCain 51% to 42% among voters who think the economy is the top issue. Obama leads McCain 49% to 42% in the same category.

South Dakota is ranked as Safe Republican in the Rasmussen Reports Balance of Power Calculator See other recent state polls.

Rasmussen Markets data shows that Republicans are strongly favored to win South Dakota’s three electoral college votes (current prices: Republican % Democrat %). Numbers in this paragraph are from a prediction market, not a poll. Using a trading format where traders "buy and sell" candidates, issues, and news features, the Rasmussen Markets harness competitive passions to provide a reliable leading indicator of upcoming events. We invite you to participate in the Rasmussen Markets. It costs nothing to join and add your voice to the collective wisdom of the market.

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