The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of Virginia voters found Democrat Mark Warner still holding a significant lead over Republican Jim Gilmore in the race for the U.S. Senate. Warner leads Gilmore by twenty percentage points, 57% to 37%.

The race between the two former governors hasn’t changed much since early January when Warner led by fifteen points.

Warner’s support increased among male voters since the last survey from 47% to 56%. The democrat now earns support evenly from men and women.

Warner earns high levels of support from liberals (88%) and moderates (70%) and even a third of conservative voters (34%). Gilmore attracts 60% of conservatives and 24% of moderate voters.

Favorability ratings for the two candidates differ greatly. Warner is viewed favorably by 68% of voters and unfavorably by 27% of voters. Gilmore earns positive reviews from 48% of Virginia voters and negative reviews from 44%.

The economy is the most important issue for 36% of Virginia voters. The War in Iraq comes in second with 19% and National Security comes in a close third with 17%.

Rasmussen Markets data just prior to the release of this survey suggested that Warner is expected to win the senate race (current prices: Republican % Democrat %). Numbers in this paragraph are from a prediction market, not a poll. Using a trading format where traders "buy and sell" candidates, issues, and news features, the Rasmussen Markets harness competitive passions to provide a reliable leading indicator of upcoming events. We invite you to participate in the Rasmussen Markets. It costs nothing to join and add your voice to the collective wisdom of the market.

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