Clarus Poll: McDonnell 49%-Deeds 41%

I just received a press release with a new poll from Clarus Research Group on the Virginia governor's race. It's not good news.

Two weeks before Virginia’s voters cast their ballots, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell has an 8-point lead over Democratic opponent Creigh Deeds, according to a statewide poll conducted October 18-19 by Clarus Research Group.

In the latest poll, McDonnell leads Democrat Creigh Deeds 49 to 41 percent with 10 percent undecided.

An earlier Clarus Poll, taken September 10-14, showed McDonnell leading Deeds by 5 points, posting a 42-37 percent margin with 20 percent undecided.

“So far in the general election, Deeds has failed to gain sustained momentum,” said Ron Faucheux, president of Clarus. “Over the past five weeks, McDonnell has expanded his lead as he’s weathered attacks on his record as a social conservative.”

“Since our last poll in mid-September, McDonnell has gained 7 points and Deeds has gained 4 points,” said Faucheux. “While anything can happen between now and Election Day, the fundamentals favor McDonnell.”

“Compared to five weeks ago, Deeds has increased his support in Northern Virginia and in the Southeast/Central part of the state. But larger gains by McDonnell more than offset those by Deeds. McDonnell’s major gains came from independents statewide and voters in the Southwest/Western region,” added Faucheux.

The poll found that the major motivation for Deeds’ voters is their support for the Democratic Party while the primary motivation for McDonnell’s supporters is because they like him personally.

Wonderful, huh? But wait, there's more bad news!

The poll also found that Republicans have the edge in the other two statewide races. Republican Bill Bolling leads Democrat Jody Wagner for lieutenant governor, 42-35 percent with 23 percent undecided. Republican Ken Cuccinelli leads Democrat Steve Shannon 41-33 percent for Attorney General with 26 percent undecided.

Well, at least there are a lot of undecided voters for LG and AG...sigh.

P.S. PPP says it will be out with a new poll tomorrow. Poll junkies, rejoice! :)