Public Policy Polling's new Idaho poll finds a close race for Governor- although there are also strong signals within the poll that the contest might not end up being that close in the end. Incumbent Butch Otter leads with only 39% to 35% for Democrat A.J. Balukoff. Minor candidates combine for an unusually high 12%, and 14% of voters are undecided. The support right now for the minor candidates is a reflection of Otter's unpopularity. Only 36% of voters approve of the job he's doing to 49% who disapprove, and even Republicans are pretty tepid in their feelings about him with 54% approving to 27% who disapprove. But those voters supporting the minor candidates say they would pick Otter over Balukoff 65/26 if they had to choose between the two, and that's enough to push Otter's lead up to 47/38 in a head to head contest/Public Policy Polling. Full report on poll here.

Question: Do you suppose this is why Butch is running so hard for a 3rd term?