Tracking poll: Bush maintains lead over Gore

From Polling Director Keating Holland/CNN

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Republican presidential hopeful George W. Bush maintains his 8 point lead over his Democratic rival, Vice President Al Gore, in Monday's CNN/USA Today/Gallup tracking poll.

One reason for Bush's lead is his advantage on several personal qualities which media coverage highlighted in the aftermath of the first presidential debate. Nearly half, 48 percent, of likely voters say Bush is more honest and trustworthy than Gore. Only 34 percent say that Gore is more trustworthy.

On the question of who is a stronger and more decisive leader, it is Bush over Gore by a 48 percent to 38 percent margin. And asked which candidate is a likeable person, voters put Bush 11 points ahead of Gore.

The latest CNN tracking poll shows Gore losing ground on the issues as well. On the question "which candidate generally agrees with the issues you care about?" Bush is beating Gore 48 to 44 points. And asked who "cares about the needs of people like you", Bush is ahead 46 to 44 percent.

The survey of 790 likely voters was conducted October 6-8 -- when the political news was dominated by questions about Gore's truthfulness during last week's presidential debate.

CNN will be releasing the results of its tracking polls every day until the November 7 elections. The polls monitor public opinion of the presidential race over intervals of two to three days.

CNN/USA TODAY/GALLUP POLL

October 6-8

Interviews with 790 likely voters

Likely voters' choice for president

Descriptions of Candidates:

COMPLETE TRACKING TREND ON HORSE RACE