Politics & Government

Post Poll: Terry McAuliffe with Double-Digit Lead Over Ken Cuccinelli in Virginia Governor Race

A Nov. 5 sweep for the Democrats?

Republican Ken Cuccinelli's deteriorating image, the recent government shutdown and scandals engulfing Gov. Robert McDonnell have all contributed to a double-digit lead for Democrat Terry McAuliffe heading into next week's election, according to a new Washington Post poll.

Likely voters favor McAuliffe over Cuccinelli, 51 percent to 39, percent, the poll found. Libertarian Robert Sarvis polled at 8 percent.

The Washington Post/Abt SRBI poll shows a huge gender gap, with support about even for each candidate among men but with McAuliffe favored among women by 24 points, 58 percent to 34 percent.

Find out what's happening in Centrevillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Cuccinelli’s weaknesses, more than McAuliffe’s strengths, are driving the numbers, the Post reported.

Among those supporting the Democrat, 64 percent say they are voting against Cuccinelli rather than for McAuliffe. 

Find out what's happening in Centrevillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The poll shows the race for lieutenant governor is equally lopsided. Likely voters support Democrat Ralph Northam, 52 percent to 39 percent, over Republican E.W. Jackson.

The race for attorney general is much tighter. The poll shows Democrat Mark Herring over Republican Mark Obenshain, 49-46, within the margin of error.

The poll was conducted by telephone Oc.t 24-27 among 762 likely voters. The margin for error is 4.5 percentage points.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Centreville