Tornado Alley (PROG)

[arizona1]

Poll: Obama beats Perry....in Texas

Indeed, the poll shows Perry trailing President Obama in heavily Republican Texas, which last voted Democratic for president in 1976, when Jimmy Carter was the South's favorite son. Obama leads 47%-45%, even though Obama's net approval rating is underwater at 42%-55%. Of course, this could potentially change if Perry actually became the nominee in a real election, but it's not a good starting point.

The poll found Perry's approval rating at only 43%, with 52% disapproval. In addition, the poll asked simply: "Do you think Rick Perry should run for president next year, or not?" The result was only 33% saying he should run, to 59% saying he should not.

Obama was tested against other Republicans, with varying results: Michele Bachmann leads by 47%-44%, Herman Cain is tied at 43%-43%, Sarah Palin trails by 46%-44%, Tim Pawlenty edges ahead by 44%-43%; and Mitt Romney has an solid, healthy lead of 50%-42%.

BBB's analysis:

This poll is just a snapshot of today, and more than anything probably reflects disapproval of Perry in his home state. I'm 90% certain, Republicans will carry Texas next year. In the heat of a Presidential campaign, Democrats are going to need a whole lot going for them to win Texas. I don't see it happening. The vast majority of public officials in Texas are Republicans and they're going to deliver that state no matter what it takes.

However, if Perry is the nominee, why the hell not play some offense and do some party building at the same time? This poll may just be a snapshot, but I'll bet money it also reflects the changing demographics in the state. That increasing Hispanic population is key. Why the hell not force the Republican nominee to play some defense in their keystone state? And we can do some important work helping build up Texas Democrats for future runs at the state.

Still, it sure does make for good headlines..."OBAMA BEATS PERRY IN TEXAS!"
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2011/06/29/989909/-Poll:-Obama-beats-Perryin-Texas?via=siderec