Our latest survey of Arkansas's gubernatorial race shows state Attorney General Mike Beebe (D) still in the lead, but no longer by the double-digit margin Rasmussen Reports noted in previous months. Beebe now bests former Congressman Asa Hutchinson (R) 47% to 40%. In April and May, Beebe was leading by 11 points.

There have been no wild gyrations for either contender. In five straight polls, the Democrat's support has ranged between 46% and 49%, whereas Hutchinson's has not strayed lower than 36% nor higher than 40%. Given the stability of the race, Beebe is favored, but is in no position yet to uncork the champagne.

Beebe is viewed favorably by 61% of all voters, unfavorably by 29%. Hutchinson is viewed favorably by 57%, unfavorably by 34%.

The job performance of Governor Mike Huckabee, a Republican, is viewed with approval by 61%, with disapproval by 38%.

By contrast, only 41% approve of the job George W. Bush is doing as President, a number slightly lower than the national average. Fifty-nine percent (59%) disapprove of the job he's doing, 41% "strongly" so.

By a margin of fifteen percentage points, Arkansas voters prefer to see a Democrat to a Republican as the nation's next President—when no specific prospects are mentioned. Polling on possible match-ups among Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, Rudy Giuliani and John McCain tells a somewhat different story. Details are available to Premium Members.

Of the four presidential prospects, John McCain is most popular, viewed favorably by 63% of voters. Giuliani is viewed favorably by 59%, Clinton by 53%, Gore by 47%. As we've observed in many other states, the two Democrats are viewed "very" unfavorably by many more voters than see the Republicans so negatively.

Crosstabs are available to Premium Members. For the latest State Election results and issues of the day see our Elections Page and Politics Page.