BELLINGHAM, WA – (MyBellinghamNow.com) Washington voters will elect a new governor next November and a new poll finds the race will likely be a close one.

Pollster Stuart Elway took a unique tack in questioning voters, asking whether they would or could vote for the leading Democratic and Republican candidates rather than focusing on the simple horse race.

He found that 37% could or would choose Democratic Attorney General Bob Ferguson, and 31% would reject him.

It was just the opposite for leading Republican Dave Reichert.

The former congressman and King County Sheriff would get the support of 31% of respondents, but 38% say they would not vote for him.

Elway says the poll shows both candidates have work to do to solidify support within their own parties.

Issues that voters say they’ll focus on in the race include candidates’ stands on homelessness, the economy, taxes, crime and the environment.