The first polling is out for the soon to be open 6th district seat held by future Health and Human Services Secretary Tom Price. In a Landmark/Rosetta Stone poll of 500 voters. Former Secretary of State Karen Handel leads at 21.7%, followed by State Rep. and Tom Price’s wife Betty Price at 10%. State Senator Judson Hill, who officially announced his bid, has 8.4%, and State Senator Brandon Beach at 4%. 55.7% are undecided.
There are several caveats to consider when considering the results. First of all, not all potential candidates are listed. Others, including Sen. John Albers and House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones were not included, for example. In addition, it is widely believed by insiders that should Handel run, Betty Price would not, and vice versa. IN addition, there were no Democratic names in the poll.
While candidates can explore their options now, Tom Price is unlikely to resign his seat until after he is confirmed by the Senate, which could be in late January. Between qualifying and the election, which is likely to include a runoff, the race may not be settled until June.
** Update **
Crosstabs are below the fold.