Democratic Congressman Ted Strickland continues to lead Republican Secretary of State Ken Blackwell in Ohio's gubernatorial race. Strickland now leads Blackwell 50% to 37%; in our last poll, Strickland led 52% to 36% (see Crosstabs).

While Democrats may enjoy the good news about the Governor’s race, the GOP will prefer polling on the Ohio Senate race.

Strickland has improved his support throughout the year; he's been at 50% or above in every survey since March. Blackwell has attracted as many as 40% in individual polls, but the gauge has fluttered around 37%-38% in each of our three-poll rolling averages.

Strickland attracts 82% of Democrats, whereas Blackwell attracts only 66% support from GOP voters. Unaffiliated voters and moderates prefer Strickland by a margin of two-to-one or more.

Strickland is viewed favorably by 53%, unfavorably by 32%. Blackwell is viewed favorably by 44%, unfavorably by 45%; 25% have a "very unfavorable" view of him.

The state's Republicans are swimming upstream this election season. Part of the problem is Governor Taft, mired in corruption scandals. Only 21% register approval of his job performance, and only 5% will say they "strongly" approve. Seventy-seven percent (77%) disapprove; including 53% who "strongly" disapprove.

With the political climate so chilly for Republicans here, only 33% say they would send a Republican to the White House in 2008 given a choice between an unnamed Republican and an unnamed Democrat. Forty-five percent (45%) prefer a generic Democrat.

Nevertheless, individual GOP presidential hopefuls have a chance with Ohio voters.

When asked how well they like four politicians known to be considering a run for President in 2008, 57% view Republican John McCain favorably, 62% viewed Republican Rudy Giuliani favorably. The two Democrats didn't fair quite as well. Forty-six percent (46%) view Al Gore favorably, 46% view Hillary Clinton favorably. The Democrats also have relatively high "very unfavorable" numbers.

Premium Members can see our 2008 polling match-ups among these four candidates. In addition, see our Politics Page and Elections Page for the latest State Election result and important issues of the day.