Like Republican Senator Chafee, Republican Governor Donald Carcieri is still treading water in his bid for reelection. The latest Rasmussen Reports poll of the race shows Democratic Lieutenant Governor Charles Fogarty leading Carcieri 41% to 40%. Fogarty edged out the governor by our in our last poll of the race as well.

Unaffiliated voters tilt toward Carcieri, moderates toward Fogarty.

In a recent kickoff speech, Governor Carcieri said his campaign is about continuing the job of reclaiming the state from special interests and political corruption. The Fogarty campaign replied that the governor has been merely reactive, not proactive, in battling corruption, and failed to change how the state does business.

Carcieri is viewed favorably by 62% of Rhode Island voters. Fogarty is viewed favorably by 55%.

On every major issue we asked about, voters tend to trust Democrats over Republicans by large margins. (See the Senate story for details.) They are also inclined give President George W. Bush poor marks on the issues.

About two thirds say the President doing a Poor job on Iraq and energy policy. On the economy, 48% say he's doing a Poor job. On immigration, 30% say he's doing an Excellent or Good job, 26% say a Fair job, 41% say a Poor one.

President Bush gets highest marks on national security, where 62% say he's doing at least a Fair job, 37% say a Poor one.

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