| This is the first poll I've seen on the Democratic side in the 5th district. Looks like a competitive primary, advantage Shepard right now, which is not surprising. The primary is exactly 4 weeks away and, as the memo notes, the undecideds are huge. From the memo: 
With less than a month until the election, a recent survey of likely Democratic primary voters in Alabama’s 5th Congressional District shows Taze Shepard leading the pack and well positioned to take on Republican Parker Griffith in November.[1]Not only does Shepard start out with more ballot support, he also enjoys a more robust public image than his closest competitor, is better liked, and perhaps most important, his message of change and reform has real resonance in this historically Democratic district. In fact, after simulating an engaged race, with each of the major candidates introducing himself to the voters, Shepard expands his base of support and retains his lead. Still, with over half of the electorate undecided, this race is up for grabs and having the resources to communicate effectively will make the difference. [1] Lake Research Partners designed and administered this survey, which reached 500 likely Democratic Primary voters in Alabama’s 5th Congressional District. The survey was conducted April 27-29, 2010. The margin of error for the survey is 4.38%.
The survey found Steve Raby (17% fav./7% unfav.) second to Taze Shepard (23% fav./8% unfav.) in name id, with Mitchell Howie and David Maker still largely unknown to likely Democratic voters. Shepard released a TV ad a couple of weeks ago and I believe Raby's ads will be starting today. Update: I checked and this survey was conducted on behalf of the Shepard for Congress campaign. Also, the darker bars indicate "strong" support within the overall level of support. For example, 10% of those surveyed are strong Shepard supporters and 7% are strong Raby supporters. |
