Posted by Volunteer Staff
on July 29th, 2012
Tulsi takes the lead in the latest poll released by The Mellman Group (Read about The Mellman Group here). You can download a detailed PDF with their findings here.
Tulsi Gabbard has eclipsed Mufi Hannemann and is now the front-runner in the race to succeed Rep. Mazie Hirono in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Tulsi Gabbard Leads Mufi Hannemann In The 2nd Congressional District Democratic Primary
With less than three weeks to go until the Democratic Primary election in Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District, Honolulu City Councilwoman Tulsi Gabbard now holds a 5 point lead over former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann (37% Gabbard, 32% Hannemann). This represents a sea change in the race since our previous poll, conducted in April, where Hannemann led Gabbard by 26-points. Indeed, Gabbard’s share of the vote has increased 21 points, while Hannemann has actually shed 10 points over the last 3 months. Esther Kia’aina (7%) and Bob Marx (7%) remain mired in the single digits. Among the 73% of voters who know both Gabbard and Hannemann, Gabbard leads by a vast 44% to 26% margin, suggesting her lead could well grow as she becomes better known.
Tulsi Gabbard’s Lead Is Grounded In Her Significantly Stronger Image
While Tulsi Gabbard has become much better-known and better-liked since April, Hannemann’s image has actually deteriorated. Gabbard’s hard name ID has increased by 27-points since April, from 49% to 76% -- with nearly all of that increase on the positive side of the ledger. Indeed, the number who view Gabbard favorably
increased by 24 points, from 35% to 59%, while the number viewing her unfavorably increased only 3 points, from 14% to 17%.
Conversely, Mufi Hannemann’s favorables have actually dropped by 9 points since April, from 61% to 52%, while his unfavorables have risen 6 points, from 31% to 37%.
Conclusion
Tulsi Gabbard has capitalized on a well-executed campaign strategy to vault into the lead over Mufi Hannemann. While Gabbard has become much better-known and better-liked among 2nd CD voters, Hannemann’s image has stagnated, making her the clear front runner as Election Day approaches.