Free Republic

Voters have starkly negative views of both candidates, each of whom has struggled in the campaign with stories that have hurt them. (Giannoulias had to spend time dealing with questions about the dealings of his family's bank, which ultimately failed, and Kirk had to acknowledge embellishing on his military service record). Forty-seven percent see Kirk unfavorably compared to 33 percent who regard him favorably, with 20 percent undecided. Giannoulias is seen unfavorably by a 48 percent to 33 percent margin, with 20 percent undecided. In mid-August, 34 percent had seen Kirk unfavorably and 42 percent saw Giannoulias unfavorably which suggests...