With the lastest Rasmussen poll of the races for Ohio governor and U.S. senator, these questions arise: Is the lead that Democrat Ted Strickland has over Republican J. Kenneth Blackwell insurmountable?

Rasmussen used the word "intimidating" to describe the 57-32 percent margin enjoyed by Strickland, a congressman from Lisbon.

And if the Democrat continues to enjoy such a double-digit lead, does that mean he will be able to carry in other statewide Democratic candidates?

As for the U.S. Senate race, Democratic challenger Sherrod Brown, a member of the U.S. House, had a 3 percent lead over incumbent Republican Michael DeWine 45-42 percent.

Rasmussen noted that early in the year, DeWine had a consistent advantage over Brown, but the tracking showed a gradual movement in the Democrat's direction.

With poll results as the backdrop, here's a test of your political acumen.

Respond to this blog with your opinion of who will win the races for governor and senator, and by what margin.

Why seek predictions this early? Because it becomes easier as election day approaches.

And while you're putting in your two cents, answer this question: If Strickland's lead over Blackwell remains in the double digits, will Mahoning Valley resident Marc Dann, a state senator from Liberty, benefit in his bid for the Ohio attorney general's post?

Dann is facing Republican Betty Montgomery, current stata auditor and a former Ohio attorney general.

These are interesting time for political junkies.