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:<\/p>\n
* New York Republicans, running out of options in their drive to take on Eliot Spitzer in the state’s gubernatorial race, have a new idea: back a Democrat. The New York Post reported<\/a> that state GOP leaders are “secretly discussing” endorsing Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi (D) for governor, even though Souzzi is expected to announce as early as tomorrow his intention to challenge Spitzer in a Dem primary. Republicans hope Souzzi might be willing to switch parties in order to make it to the November ballot. Souzzi confirmed that New York GOP leaders have contacted him.<\/p>\n * Montana Sen. Conrad Burns (R), a major figure<\/a> in the Jack Abramoff fiasco, announced this week that he will run for re-election this year. It remains to be seen whether the Republican Party is pleased about the idea. A new Rasmussen poll<\/a> shows Burns tied with state Senate President Jon Tester (D), 45% to 45%, and narrowly ahead of State Auditor John Morrison (D), 46% to 43%. Four months ago, a similar Rasmussen poll showed Burns with double-digit leads over both, suggesting the Abramoff news is reaching Montana loud and clear.<\/p>\n * California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) is still not popular, but his political standing has improved a bit<\/a> in recent months. A new poll from the Survey and Policy Research Institute finds that Schwarzenegger’s overall approval rating has now reached 40%, though 51% still disapprove. Moreover, looking ahead to November, Schwarzenegger enjoys narrow leads over his most likely Dem challengers. The poll shows Schwarzenegger ahead of State Treasurer Phil Angelides (D), 30% to 25%, and up on State Controller Steve Westly (D), 28% to 24%. In both cases, “undecided” was the big winner.<\/p>\n * Ten months before voters head to the polls, Connecticut Gov. Jodi Rell (R) enjoys a surprisingly large lead over her potential Dem rivals. A new Quinnipiac poll<\/a> shows Rell leading New Haven Mayor John DeStefano (D), 64% to 21%, and ahead of Stamford Mayor Dan Malloy (D), 68% to 17%.<\/p>\n