Less than a month since Carl DeMaio announced his intentions to run for the congressional seat currently held by Scott Peters, an exclusive 10News scientific poll shows that it could be another close race.
Though Peters, a Democrat, is only seven months into his new job as congressional representative for California's 52nd District, the 10News poll shows that voters questioned think DeMaio, a Republican, may do a better job.
The poll shows 48 percent would vote for DeMaio, while only 39 percent would choose Peters. Thirteen percent were undecided.
Political analyst Dr. Carl Luna said "Carl Demaio is pulling on the fact that he's no longer on the City Council. There's been no bad press about him since he lost the race for mayor. Scott Peters is an incumbent; nobody likes Congress, so that works against him currently."
Representatives from Peters' camp told 10News the congressman was just ranked the fourth-most independent voice in Congress by the National Journal, saying, "He's earned high praise from Republicans and Democrats alike here at home for his common sense, problem-solving approach."
When asked who better reflects your positions on social issues, 40 percent of voters in the 10News poll went for DeMaio, with Peters getting just 38 percent and 23 percent "not sure."
In a statement, DeMaio responded, "I'm pleased that my vision for and track record in reforming finances, holding government accountable and revitalizing the economy is attracting support from San Diegans from across the political spectrum."
"Both Peters and DeMaio will have to pull in the middle to get independents and moderates to vote for them," said Luna.
The poll comes more than a year before any votes will be cast or any campaigning will begin.
