U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, the GOP incumbent, enjoys more than 50% support in each of three match-ups with potential Democratic opponents.

The second Rasmussen Reports survey of the Georgia Senate contest shows Senator Chambliss now leading former broadcast journalist Dale Cardwell 52% to 36%. Chambliss leads DeKalb County CEO Vernon Jones 55% to 32% and he has the advantage over ecologist and technology consultant Rand Knight 54% to 30% (see crosstabs).

Our September survey did not include data on Knight. But Chambliss then led Cardwell 49% to 33%, and led Jones 53% to 28%. The incumbent thus sustains roughly the same leads over both Cardwell and Jones, but based on slightly stronger support. Cardwell, well-known as an investigative journalist to Atlanta-area viewers, remains the most formidable contender in our survey.

Chambliss is viewed favorably by 60% of likely voters. Cardwell and Jones are each viewed favorably by just 30%. More voters are Not Sure what to think of Cardwell (31%) than Jones (17%), but Jones has higher negatives.

Knight is viewed favorably by just 21%, unfavorably by 42%, with 36% unsure what to think of him.

The survey was conducted in partnership with Fox Television Stations, Inc.

Georgians have given Democrats with presidential aspirations more money than usual this electoral season. But Senator Chambliss has had no trouble raising money either. He raised $1 million during the quarter ending in September, has $3.9 million on hand, and has no opposition to fend off in the primary campaign.

Jones raised $188,970 during the quarter, Cardwell about $50,000, Knight a little over $15,000.

Fifty percent (50%) of Georgia voters say Chambliss is doing a good or an excellent job in office. Fifty-six percent (56%) say the same about Governor Sonny Perdue.

President Bush doesn’t fare as well. Forty-two percent (42%) say he is doing a good or an excellent job while 44% rate his performance as poor.

See survey questions and top-line results. Crosstabs available for Premium Members only.