In the latest Rasmussen Reports poll of the competitive U.S. Senate contest in Maryland, Republican Lt. Governor Michael Steele slightly trails each Democratic contender. Congressman Ben Cardin (D) leads Steele 47% to 42%. Former NAACP President Kweisi Mfume (D) leads the Republican 46% to 44% (see crosstabs). This sets the stage for a closely fought general election no matter which Democrat wins the September 12 primary.

This race is listed as Leans Democrat in our Balance of Power summary. That would change to Toss-up if Mfume wins the primary. The state’s Governor’s race is also competitive.

Cardin was seen early on as the clear frontrunner in the race. More recently, Mfume is thought to be much more competitive in the Democratic primary. In our general election poll, among Democrats, Mfume now collects a few percentage points more support than Cardin does. Mfume is also favorably viewed by more Democrats. Cardin, though, is still thought to be the better organized and better funded candidate.

Some people believe that Mfume may benefit from the large number of candidates in the primary field. That could create a situation where no candidate receives more than 35% of the vote.

Another surprise in the race is the ongoing competitiveness of presumptive GOP nominee Michael Steele in this very blue state. Despite ups and downs in his campaign and the polls, Steele is right back where he started over a year ago. Our first poll in this race, conducted in July 2005, Steele was only five points behind Cardin.

When asked about the electoral issues that most concern them, voters most often mention the economy and the war in Iraq. Almost three times as many Democrats as Republicans name Iraq as the top issue.

Most Maryland voters, 64%, call themselves pro-choice. Twenty-seven percent (27%) are pro-life.

Fifty-seven percent (57%) say the political system is "badly broken," including 40% of Republicans, 63% of Democrats.

Crosstabs are available to Premium Members. See our Politics Page and Elections Page for other State Election results and important issues of the day.