Rudy Giuliani Watch: Giuliani Leading in WNBC/Marist Poll

Former mayor of New York Rudy Giuliani (R) speaks during a news conference in Singapore September 17, 2006. At left is Mark Advent, chairman of casino operator Eighth Wonder.

WNBC/Marist Poll: National Poll: Campaign 2008

Will Americaâ€™s mayor become Americaâ€™s president? Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani is one of the top Republican presidential contenders for 2008 and the only leading potential candidate, Democrat or Republican, that a majority of registered voters nationwide would like to see run for president. Many voters also see him as ideologically acceptable although this is fueled by 70% of Republicans who see him as politically about right. But voters divide over whether they think he will, in fact, run for president and many are not optimistic about his chances should he decide to do so.

Question Wording: If the 2008 Republican presidential primary were held today, whom would you support if the candidates are: (asked of Republicans and Republican leaning independents):

October 2006

Rudy Giuliani – 23 %

Condoleezza Rice – 20%

John McCain – 15%

Newt Gingerich – 7%

Mitt Romney – 4%

And the most important poll – the match-up with Hillary Clinton:

Question wording: If the 2008 presidential election were held today, whom would you support if the candidates are:

October 2006 – Registered Voters

Rudy Giuliani – 49%

Hillary Clinton – 42%

Undecided – 9%