TPM Reader LG checks in from New Jersey …
I’d like to add a few more comments concerning the NJ gubernatorial race, and specifically, why Christie is losing ground in a hurry. Clearly, a strong factor is the typical NJ slide away from the Republican as election day draws near. Another factor pointed out was that Corzine is massively outspending Christie. I also think that a very new and major factor is Christie’s lack of specifics juxtaposed to independent Chris Daggett’s substance.
Just before the first debate, Daggett unveiled a fairly specific plan to cut property taxes, and during the debate and subsequent appearances, has been very willing to talk substance. Christie, on the other hand, has continued to not offer any specifics on how he plans to cut spending. Even as recently as yesterday he said in an interview that he doesn’t plan to change his campaign. He seems to think he can continue to be the white knight and slam Corzine all the way to victory.
My feeling is that Daggett, whose poll numbers are climbing, is taking the following votes away from Christie: moderates who don’t want to vote for/hate Corzine, but who are now getting tired of Christie’s lack of specifics. Daggett is answering tough questions honestly and is becoming very appealing right now amidst the Corzine/Christie pool of mudslinging and vagueness.
