Tony Knowles (D) is gaining ground in his bid to become Alaska’s next governor. However, the latest Rasmussen Reports election poll shows Republican Sarah Palin with a seven-point lead over Knowles, 47% to 40% (see crosstabs). A month ago, Palin was ahead 52% to 38%. The earlier survey was taken in the days following Alaska’s primary election while Palin enjoyed a bounce from defeating the incumbent Governor Frank Murkowski.

Though her numbers have taken a dip, Palin is still viewed in a more positive light than Knowles. Sixty-nine percent (69%) of voters have a favorable opinion of Palin, including 33% with a very favorable opinion. Knowles earns favorable nods from 53% of voters, including 23% with a “very favorable” opinion of him.

When asked to rate the importance of issues based on their potential to influence votes, 74% of Alaskans surveyed say government corruption is “very important,” followed by national security issues (68%) and domestic issues, which include health care, education and Social Security (62%.)

On the topic of Social Security, 57% say they would consider voting for a candidate who supports changes to the Social Security system. Twenty-six percent (26%) would not, and 18% are undecided. A near majority (49%) say they also would consider supporting a candidate who says they would raise taxes. Thirty-three percent (33%) would never vote for such a candidate and 19% are undecided.

Forty-five percent (45%) of voters say the U.S. should bring its troops home from Iraq within the year. Thirty-five percent (35%) disagree and 20% are undecided.

Outgoing Gov. Frank Murkowski’s numbers continue to tumble as he prepares to leave office. Fifty-eight percent (58%) of voters say they “strongly disapprove” of his job performance—a four-point increase since the last survey.

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