Now that Florida's gubernatorial primaries are over, Democratic Senator Bill Nelson has finally started running TV spots in support of his reelection bid.

But the feel-good ads, which do not bother to mention his opponent, may be having only a negligible impact on his already commanding lead over Republican Congresswoman Katherine Harris. That lead currently stands at 56% to 33% (see crosstabs). In late August, the Rasmussen Reports election poll showed Nelson ahead 57% to 34%.

In our Senate Balance of Power summary, Florida remains safely in the Democratic column.

With just one exception, Nelson has enjoyed a twenty-to-thirty-point advantage throughout the year.

Harris was always expected to win her party's nomination. But she early on lost the support of top GOP officials, some of whom openly invited her to withdraw. And her campaign has been marred by numerous high-profile departures and unflattering reports of her conduct.

Congresswoman Harris wins support from only 63% of GOP, just 3% better than the lukewarm level she attracted in August. Nelson can count on 88% of Democrats.

Nelson is viewed favorably by 54% of all voters, Harris by just 39%. Harris is in a rare category of candidates who are viewed unfavorably by a majority of the state’s Likely Voters. Overall, 52% percent view her unfavorably, including 38% with a very unfavorable opinion.

Crosstabs are available for Premium Members only.