Spitzer has an early lead -- if he can get on the ballot

A new poll shows the former governor with a 9-point lead in the primary for New York City comptroller

Published July 11, 2013 1:05PM (EDT)

If Eliot Spitzer can collect the 3,750 signatures he needs by midnight Thursday in order to get on the ballot for New York City comptroller, then he will enter the race with a 9-point lead against his primary opponent, according to a poll by the Wall Street Journal/Marist.

From the Wall Street Journal:

Among registered Democrats, including those who are undecided but leaning toward a candidate, Mr. Spitzer outpaces Mr. Stringer 42% to 33% in the Democratic primary, the poll showed. Nearly a quarter of voters were undecided, but two-thirds of Democrats, or 67%, said they believe Mr. Spitzer, who resigned as governor five years ago after he was caught patronizing prostitutes, should be given a second chance.

The poll showed that 46 percent of those surveyed had a favorable view of Spitzer, compared to 35 percent who saw him unfavorably.

The primary for the race will be held on Sept. 10.


By Jillian Rayfield

Jillian Rayfield is an Assistant News Editor for Salon, focusing on politics. Follow her on Twitter at @jillrayfield or email her at jrayfield@salon.com.

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2013 Elections Comptroller Eliot Spitzer New York New York City