The first Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of Connecticut’s Democratic Presidential Primary shows the race couldn’t possibly get any closer. New York Senator Hillary Clinton attracts 40% of the vote and so does Illinois Senator Barack Obama. John Edwards is a very distant third at 11% while 3% say they’d vote for some other candidate and 6% are not sure. (see crosstabs)

Clinton leads by four among women while Obama leads by six among men. Clinton leads among voters over 65 while Obama holds the edge among younger voters. Clinton does better among lower-income voters while Obama attracts more of those with higher incomes.

The survey was conducted January 27, the day after Obama’s victory in South Carolina.

Nationally, Clinton holds a modest lead over Obama in the Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll. However, a Rasmussen Reports analysis suggests that something might have changed following Obama’s huge victory in South Carolina. The numbers still favor Clinton but-as every sports fan knows--sometimes the numbers don’t matter.

Obama is viewed favorably by 81% of the state’s Likely Democratic Primary Voters, Clinton by 77%. Both earn slightly more positive reviews from women than men.

Seventy-nine percent (79%) think Clinton would be somewhat likely to win the election if nominated. Seventy-eight percent (78%) say the same about Obama.

Seventy percent (70%) of Clinton’s voters are certain they will vote for her. Sixty-five percent (65%) of Obama’s voters are that “certain.”

Looking ahead on the Primary calendar, Obama leads in Georgia. However, Clinton leads in Florida, Missouri, Alabama, California, New York, and New Jersey. An Inside Report by Robert Novak says that Clinton’s lead in California may not be as solid as it seems.

Rasmussen Markets data gives Clinton a % chance of winning the Democratic nomination and Obama a % chance. 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.

Crosstabs are available to Premium Members only.