In the race for Illinois Governor, Republican State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka now leads Democratic Governor Rod R. Blagojevich 44% to 38%. In March, Topinka led 43% to 41%.

Topinka has now led in three of the four polls we have conducted of the race, albeit modestly for the most part. Our three-poll rolling average continues to show a tight race, with Topinka barely ahead 41%-40%. However, over the course of those three surveys, Topinka has gained ground each time.

The latest Rasmussen Reports survey of the contest was conducted April 18, a day after voters learned of a former Republican Governor's conviction on corruption charges. Blagojevich's administration is also being investigated for corruption, which the Topinka campaign has been eager to point out.

The Blagojevich campaign, for its part, has stressed Topinka's past service under the convicted governor, from whom she has sought to distance herself.

How the charges and counter-charges will play out in the minds of voters will be reflected in coming polls, but Governor Blagojevich is clearly in a vulnerable position for an incumbent. He has yet to rise above 42% support, let alone 50%, when pitted against Topinka, and enjoys only 64% support from fellow Democrats.

Only 43% of likely voters view the incumbent favorably; 57% disapprove. Topinka is viewed favorably by 58%, unfavorably by 39%.

However, opinions on both candidates are fairly soft. Just 17% have a "very favorable" opinion of Topinka while 15% have a "very unfavorable" opinion."

For the Governor, 14% have a "very favorable" opinion and 29% hold a "very unfavorable" opinion.

Sixty percent (60%) of Illinois voters say tax increases hurt the economy; 19% say they help. Fifty-four percent (54%) say tax cuts help the economy, while 25% say they hurt it.

Sixty-five percent (65%) of likely voters agree that controlling the border and enforcing current law should have priority over further reform. Fifty-eight percent (58%) say our national policy goal should be to welcome immigrants generally, except for criminals and those who pose a security threat or would try to live off welfare.

Forty-nine percent (49%) disagree that all illegal aliens in the country should be forced to leave. Fifty-two percent (52%) disagree that the child of an illegal alien should automatically become a citizen of the U.S.

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