Discover GOP Opprobrium

[teapeebubbles]

Today's installment of campaign-related news items that wouldn't generate a post of their own, but may be of interest to political observers.

* A new Rasmussen poll shows Chris Christie (R) leading incumbent Gov. Jon Corzine (D) in New Jersey's gubernatorial race by seven, 48% to 41%. Earlier this month, Christie's lead was eight, but Corzine is running short on time -- Election Day is six weeks away.

* Former eBay executive Meg Whitman launched her Republican gubernatorial campaign in California yesterday. In her kick-off speech, she complained about taxes, spending, and regulations.

* Speaking of California, former Hewlett-Packard executive Carly Fiorina is moving closer to launching her Republican senatorial campaign. To help get the word out, Fiorina's team has unveiled a rather dreadful website, and a head-shaking new slogan: "Carlyfornia dreamin."

* Former Rep. Rick Lazio (R) formally launched his gubernatorial campaign in New York yesterday.

* Retired baseball player Curt Schilling announced yesterday that he will not run for the Senate in Massachusetts' upcoming special election.

* A new Rasmussen poll shows a very competitive Senate race in Missouri next year, with Rep. Roy Blunt (R) and Secretary of State Robin Carnahan (D) tied at 46% each.

* And in case there were any lingering doubts about whether Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty (R) is running for president in 2012, the increasingly right-wing governor launched a new political action committee yesterday. He's calling it the "Freedom First" PAC.