Challenges Grow for Gillibrand's Re-Election Prospects in N.Y.

2 years ago

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A possible primary challenge from former Tennessee Rep. Harold Ford appears to be the least of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand's problems. A plurality of voters would rather see someone else than her elected as senator and, for the first time, more of them regard her unfavorably than favorably, according to a Siena Research Institute poll conducted Jan. 10-14.

Forty-five percent say they would prefer someone other than Gillibrand as senator, 29 percent would re-elect her and 26 percent are undecided. Thirty-two percent see her unfavorably compared to 30 percent who see her favorably, while 38 percent don't have an opinion. In December, 31 percent saw Gillibrand favorably and 22 percent unfavorably.

Matched in a primary race against Ford, Gillibrand leads him, 41 percent to 17 percent, with 37 percent undecided or not knowing enough about the candidates to have an opinion. Sixty-three percent are undecided about Ford or don't know enough about him to have an opinion.

Siena tested Gillibrand in a general election race against former Gov. George Pataki, and he led, 51 percent to 38 percent, with 11 percent undecided. In December, they were statistically tied, with Gillibrand leading him by 46 percent to 43 percent.

The polling on the governor's race is pretty much the same as it has been. The incumbent, David Paterson, runs about even with former Republican Rep. Rick Lazio. If Attorney General Andrew Cuomo gets in the race and beats Paterson for the nomination, he would lead Lazio, 66 percent to 24 percent.

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Filed Under: Senate, Polls, Governors, Poll Watch, 2010 Elections

Tagged: andrew cuomo, AndrewCuomo, george pataki, GeorgePataki, harold ford, HaroldFord, kirsten gillibrand, KirstenGillibrand, new york senate race, NewYorkSenateRace, rick lazio, RickLazio

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