http://bit.ly/8AU3k

Most of the Republicans with whom I have spoken are either supporting Rubio or staying on the sidelines during this primary. Crist’s reputation as “Chain Gang Charlie” that helped in him the GOP primary against Gallagher is now gone. Most of his support now comes predominantly from independents and Democrats.

However, many Republicans realize that Crist will have little trouble in the general election and are reluctant to get abandon a sure thing. Rubio is viewed as untested and there are concerns about him winning the general election, although just about everyone knows he’ll have a future at the state level.

If Rubio is able to raise some money and someone like Jeb Bush gets behind him, Rubio stands a strong chance of winning the primary. Most Republicans agree with Rubio on the issues and Crist has to carry the burden of supporting Obama’s spending and his drive restore felon rights.

Crist’s positions are far cry from the gubernatorial candidate who pledged that his first piece of legislation as governor would be an “anti-murder” bill.

I think this race will be competitive and it will be interesting to see what the poll numbers look like come March.