Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry (D) leads his strongest Republican challenger, Ernest Istook, by 11 percentage points. The latest Rasmussen Reports election poll shows Henry with 50% of the statewide vote while Istook attracts 39% (see crosstabs).

Support below 50% is generally considered problematic for an incumbent, but it's a good showing for a Democrat in a Republican-leaning state (in 2004, President Bush won 60% of the vote here).

Henry is viewed favorably by 65% of Oklahoma voters, unfavorably by 34%; 67% like his job performance. Istook is viewed favorably by 53%. At this point, the race looks like Henry's to lose.

Republicans had hoped former Republican Congressman J.C. Watts would toss his hat in the ring and present a more formidable challenge, but last year Watts bowed out.

Two of the most visible politicians considering a presidential run draw opposite reactions in Oklahoma.

Senator Hillary Clinton, a Democrat, is viewed favorably by only 28%, unfavorably by 68%. Our regularly updated Hillary Meter shows that the New York Senator remains a polarizing figure on the national scene.

Senator John McCain, a Republican, is viewed favorably by 50%, unfavorably by 41%.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members.

Sixty percent (60%) of the state's voters say tax increases hurt the economy; 63% say tax cuts help.

Oklahoma views on the immigration debate are consistent with national trends showing that voters cannot be neatly divided into pro- and anti-immigration camps.

Sixty-nine percent (69%) say immigrants should be generally welcomed if they are not criminals, security threats, or headed for the welfare rolls. Seventy-one percent (71%) say that securing the borders and enforcing existing law should be accomplished before any further reforms are entertained.

Forty-two percent (42%) say all illegal aliens should be forced to leave the country; 34% disagree. This makes Oklahoma one of the few states with a plurality in favor of throwing out all illegal immigrants (see state-by-state data).

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members.]