Republican Christopher Christie leads Gov. Jon Corzine by nine points, 47%-38%, according to a new Rasmussen Reports poll released today.  Corzine and another Republican, Steve Lonegan, are in a statistical dead heat: Lonegan 42%, Corzine 41%.

"These numbers, while disappointing for an incumbent, are actually an improvement for Corzine," the poll analysis said.  "In March, as the Governor announced announcing his budget plan including $916 million in new and increased taxes, Corzine trailed Christie by fifteen points and was eight points behind Lonegan."  The analysis also noted that in a generic vote, 48% of state voters want a Democratic Governor, while 34% have a preference for a Republican.

Just 9% of voters strongly approve of Corzine's job performance, and 40% approve overall -- a seven point increase over the last two months.  But 33% view Corzine as very unfavorable.

President Obama has a 64% apprval rating in New Jersey.