The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of Washington voters found a virtual tie in the race for the state’s next governor. Democratic Incumbent Christine Gregoire holds a statistically insignificant lead over Republican Dino Rossi, 47% to 46%.

The numbers were reversed last month, when Rossi had a one point lead in the match-up. Four years ago, the 2004 election between the same two candidates was one of the closest elections in the state’s history.

Gregoire has a nine-point lead among women, while Rossi has a eight-point lead among men. The candidates are essentially even when it comes to voters not affiliated with either major party.

Favorability ratings for both candidates are quite similar. Rossi is viewed favorably by 51% and unfavorably by 41%. Gregoire’s numbers are 53% favorable and 44% unfavorable.

When it comes to the way she has performed her role as Governor, nearly half (46%) of Washington voters give Gregoire a good or excellent rating. Twenty-three percent (23%) give her performance a poor rating.

In the state’s presidential election, Barack Obama leads John McCain but McCain has a small lead over Hillary Clinton.

Rasmussen Markets data now shows the Washington Governor’s race to be a toss-up (current prices: Democrat % Republican %) 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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