Swann Campaign Showing Life

In the most recent Groff/Ellison Political Report, http://www.blackpolicy.org/groff_ellison_political_report.html we noted the near stagnant nature of Lynn Swann's campaign for Governor of Pennsylvania. Mr. Swann bolted from the gate in January, even running within the margin of error in a couple of polls, but seemed to have slowed to a crawl by late spring.

However, the latest Rasmussen Reports Poll (http://www.blackpolicy.org/black-races.php?s=PA) shows some life in the Swann campaign. This poll has incumbent Governor Ed Rendell up only 10 points compared to the 13 point bulge he held just 3 weeks ago and the 24 point gap he opened up in June according to a Quinnipiac poll. The poll also shows the former Pittsburgh Steeler Wide Receiver with a favorable rating of 59%, but Governor Rendell tops that favored by 62%.

The bigger problem for the Swann effort may be the level of reticence he is receiving from the party. Only 67% of Republicans in the poll said they plan to vote for the Hall of Famer a Reticence Level of 33%, while Governor Rendell is drawing support from 73% of Democrats.