Gillibrand Could Face Tough Election

A new Zogby IVR poll shows that U.S. senator Kirsten Gillibrand of New York could face a tough battle for election in 2010 should she face either Rudy Giuliani or George Pataki (pictured right), two Republicans with strong name recognition who are weighing bids.

In the 2010 election, according to Zogby International, former New York City mayor and failed presidential aspirant Rudy Giuliani is in a statistical tie with Gillibrand, Forty-five percent of likely voters prefer Giuliani and 43% support the incumbent Gillibrand, well within the poll's 3.2% margin of error.

Also in the poll, Gillibrand holds a slight lead over former governor George Pataki, at 43% to 38%.

"When asked whether first-term Senator Gillibrand deserves another term as senator from New York, 32% of likely voters say she should, and 43% say that it is time for someone new. Twenty-six percent were not sure. Among likely Republican voters Rudy Giuliani holds a large lead over George Pataki (72% to 28%)," reported Zogby International.

Gillibrand, formerly a congresswoman from upstate New York, was appointed in January by Gov. David Paterson to fill the seat vacated by Hillary Rodham Clinton, who left to become secretary of State. The full term won by Clinton ends in 2012, but state law mandates a special election be held in 2010 because of the interim appointment.

Since taking office Gillibrand has positioned herself as a vocal proponent of marriage equality and repeal of the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy.