Our first election poll here since California's June 6 primaries shows the Democratic gubernatorial nominee, Phil Angelides, with a narrow lead of 46% to 44% over the incumbent.
Our April survey had shown Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger opening up a substantial lead over the Democratic contenders, but by May the race had tightened once again.
Immigration, health care and taxes are among the issues that have emerged in the campaign.
Meanwhile, in the race for U.S. Senate Democratic incumbent Dianne Feinstein continues to amble to reelection, flattening Republican Dick Mountjoy 60% to 33% in our poll. Feinstein is viewed favorably by 56%, Mountjoy by 27%. Forty-two percent (42%) say they don't yet have an opinion of the Republican.
Governor Schwarzenegger earns approval from 51% of the state's voters for the way he has handled his job. Forty-nine percent (49%) disapprove, including 26% who "strongly" disapprove.
Fifty percent (50%) of California's likely voters Strongly Disapprove of the way President George W. Bush is doing his job.
A plurality of California voters, 45%, would like to see a Democrat as their next President; 35% want a Republican to succeed President Bush. But when we matched particular Democrats interested in the job with particular Republicans, the Democratic candidate is a clear if narrow favorite in only one of the four match-ups we asked about. Details are available for Premium Members.
Among the four potential presidential candidates we named-Hillary Clinton, Al Gore, John McCain, and Rudy Giuliani-Republicans are viewed somewhat more favorably than the Democrats. Giuliani is viewed favorably by the highest number, 60%.
Crosstabs are available to Premium Members. For the latest State Election results and issues of the day see our Elections Page and Politics Page.