There is no declared independent seeking the office so that finding is more a reflection of dissatisfaction with the traditional political parties. The paper said "The likelihood of an independent candidate stepping in to fill the energy void would seem to be low."

Lt. Gov John Cherry is the Democratic establishment's choice but the Free Press says he is generating little enthusiasm, with only 20 percent of likely Democratic primary voters saying they support him. Fifty-nine percent of Democrats say they don't know which of five candidates they would vote for, not surprising since the primary is next August.

On the Republican side, nine-term Rep. Pete Hoekstra is on top of the GOP field with 21 percent, followed by Attorney General Mike Cox at 15 percent, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard at 13 percent and two others in single digits.