Our latest poll of the race for Pennsylvania governor shows Republican Lynn Swann, the former receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, narrowly leading Democratic Governor Ed Rendell 45% to 43%.

Fifty-four percent (54%) of voters view Swann favorably; 47% view Rendell favorably.

Swann formally declared his candidacy just two weeks ago, on January 4. But he has enjoyed early success in securing endorsements from two of six regional caucuses in his quest for the party nomination. The Republican state Committee will endorse a candidate on February 11.

Rendell does much better against former Lt. Governor Bill Scranton III, leading 46% to 36%.

In polls conducted last July and November--before Swann formally announced his candidacy--Rendell held a lead over both Republican candidates.

Despite the yardage Swann has gained, the game with Rendell is still very much in play. Both men currently win about two thirds of the members of their respective parties. Each also wins about two thirds of self-identified liberals (Rendell) or conservatives (Swann).

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Swann attracts more votes from Democrats than Rendell does from Republican, but unaffiliated voters side with Rendell 44% to 38%. Rendell also leads among moderates 48% to 40%.

Although Swann has just announced his candidacy in a formal sense, he has been visibly preparing for a run for close to a year. If elected, he would be the first black to serve as Pennsylvania's governor.

Governor Rendell has often been regarded as a potential candidate for President. Many believe his popularity helped John Kerry win the state in 2004.

The governor is a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Visit our Election Polls page to see a summary of our latest state-by state polling. Rasmussen Reports is polling every Senate and Governors' race at least once a month this year.

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