Schrader takes strong lead while Mannix and Erickson run neck and neck to the finish line

State Senator Kurt Schrader has a handy lead over democratic primary candidate Steve Marks, and Republican Kevin Mannix is squeaking ahead of Mike Erickson in a last minute poll released by SurveyUSA and commissioned by KATU news.

With 43 percent, Schrader led Marks nearly two to one, although a full 38 percent of voters said they were undecided. Schrader does however lead in every demographic group.

Mannix—who dropped an eleventh hour bomb on Erickson last week—nosed ahead, 46 to 42 percent. The 4.7 margin of error, however, means that the race is still neck and neck.

SurveyUSA noted the possible effect of the mud-slinging on the 5th: “Since SurveyUSA's previous poll on this contest, released eleven days ago on 05/08/08, Mannix has gained 5 points; Erickson has lost 7. Then, Mannix led by 8 points; today, he trails by 4. Among men, Erickson had led by 9, now trails by 5, a 14-point swing to Mannix. Among women, Erickson had led by 5, now trails by 3. Among voters 50+, Erickson had led by 16, now trails by 7, a 23-point swing to Mannix. Among pro-life voters, Erickson had led by 4, now trails by 16, a 20-point swing to Mannix.”

The automated poll called 1,600 registered voters in the 5th District for each primary.