NC Poll: Perdue 43, McCrory 42

The Civitas Institute ^ | May 23, 2008

[Clintonfatigued]

The race for Governor in North Carolina begins as a wide open affair with Lt. Gov. Bev Perdue (D) and Charlotte Mayor Pat McCrory (R) in a virtual tie according to a new poll released today by the Civitas Institute.

Of the 800 likely general election voters surveyed, 43 percent support Perdue while 42 percent support McCrory. 15 percent of voters were undecided at this point.

“The race for Governor is a toss-up at this point. Both candidates begin the general election on equal footing. It will be a race to see who is the first gain to break away or gain some sort of a leg up,” stated Francis DeLuca, Executive Director of the Civitas Institute.

McCrory’s is able to make the race competitive through his large lead in the Charlotte region where he leads Perdue 59-31. However, Perdue holds a similar commanding leads in the Triangle area (919 area code) 52-33 and in the Northeast (252 area code) 53-33.

Click here for full results and crosstabs.

[Clintonfatigued]

It’s notable that McCrory is running so strongly in the Charlotte area, as it’s not a Republican stronghold and hasn’t been for years.

[bilhosty]

This is one that the Dem’s had been considered heavy favorites. So since it seems to be breaking our way maybe not allof the news is bad for us.

[boomop1]

She will ride McNitwits coat tails.

[JohnnyZ]

McCrory should be able to improve his standing in the Triad and parts of the Triangle. He's pretty much tailor-made for suburbia.

I'm surprised that after all these years he'd pick 2008 to run for Governor, but apparently he sees an opening.

I do wonder what racial breakdown the poll is using. With Obama on the top of the ticket the Dems should have a sizable advantage in turnout. Blacks & country folks & liberals is a good formula for victory.