For the first time in Election 2006, Governor Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) has opened a significant lead over his Democratic challengers.

The latest Rasmussen Reports election poll in California shows Schwarzenegger leading State Treasurer Phil Angelides (D) by double digits, 49% to 36%. The candidates had been neck-and-neck in our previous polls.

The Governor leads State Comptroller Steve Westly (D) 48% to 40%. Schwarzenegger and Westly were essentially even in March. In February, Schwarzenegger led Westly 39% to 34%.

This is the first Rasmussen Reports election poll of the season in California where the incumbent has come even close to the 50% level of support. Typically, incumbents who poll below 50% are considered vulnerable.

Since March, both Angelides and Westly have lost a bit of ground among fellow Democrats. This may be the result of an increasingly heated Primary competition.

Angelides has also talked about possible tax increases. That is likely to hurt in a state where just 26% of voters believe tax hikes help the economy (42% believe they hurt the economy). Fifty-five percent (55%) of California voters say that preparing their taxes is worse than going to the dentist. Just 33% say a visit to the dental chair is more painful.

Another big issue of late has been immigration, although it's not clear how this will impact the race for Governor. Fifty-five percent (55%) of California voters say they are following the issue "very closely." Another 30% are following it "somewhat closely."

Like most states a majority of California voters (60%) believe that we should control our borders and enforce existing law before considering additional immigration reforms. A majority (58%) also supports a policy goal that would allow all to enter the nation except those who are national security threats, criminals, or are coming to live off the U.S. welfare system.

Just 33% of California voters believe that all illegal aliens should be forcibly required to leave the United States.

It remains to be seen whether the Governor's lead in this poll represents a lasting change in the dynamic of the race or is just a temporary phenomenon.

Rasmussen Reports now releases data for a three-poll rolling average on our state election polls. Used in conjunction with individual survey results, this tool will help determine whether shifting poll results are due to changes in the race or are merely statistical noise.

The three-poll rolling average for February, March, and April shows Schwarzenegger leading both Democrats 44% to 40%.

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