Former Gov. Charlie Crist, running as a Democrat, leads Gov. Rick Scott by a narrow margin, 45-40 percent in a two-way race. But, when a virtually unknown Libertarian candidate Adrian Wyllie is throw into the mix, the race is too close to call, with 39 percent for Crist, 37 percent for Scott and 9 percent for Wyllie, according to a Quinnipiac University poll released Wednesday.
In an April 30 poll, Crist led Scott by a double-digit lead, 48 – 38 percent, without Wyllie, according to the independent Quinnipiac University.
The survey also found that Scott leads former State Sen. Nan Rich 41 – 34 percent in a two-way race.
Floridians give Scott a negative 43 – 48 percent approval rating, one of his best scores in almost four years and a negative 40 – 45 percent favorability rating.
Crist breaks almost even with a 40 percent favorable and 42 percent unfavorable.
As regards Wyllie, 92 percent don’t even know enough about him to form an opinion.
“The campaign to be Florida’s next governor tightens slightly and takes on a new dimension with a third candidate in the running,” said Peter Brown, assistant director of the Quinnipiac University Poll. “Libertarian Adrian Wyllie is not, at this point, a serious contender to win the governorship. But he may have a great deal to say about who does win.”
“Because Wyllie is so unknown and presumably unable to compete in the air war at this point, how he does may be a function of how unhappy voters are with the major party choices,” Brown added.
Voters say, 51-40 percent that Scott is not honest and trustworthy, and say 48 – 39 percent that Crist is not honest and trustworthy.
Republicans, Democrats and independents are divided on Crist’s party change: 47 percent say it’s positive, 45 percent say it’s negative. This compared to a 52-40 percent positive score April 30.
Conducted among 1,251 registered voters from July 17 – 21, the Quinnipiac poll has a margin of error of + or – 2.8 percentage points.
Folks, it all comes down to recognition. We need to spread the word about Adrian Wyllie in order for him to win. I am very much behind the “super brochure” plan, so much so, that I personally have completely covered my entire precinct where I live. I think it’s the most affective and economical way to bring the super voters, attention to Adrian Wyllie. Most don’t even know there is another choice other than scott/christ. It only cost me $47.50 to cover my precinct. I urge others to do the same. If you want him elected, you must do something to make it happen. Just your one vote will not do it. Take advantage of this great opportunity we have to get a Libertarian in the Governor’s office. We (Floridians) desperately need this. I beg you to do what you can.