SPEAKING OF POLLS AND THE PRESIDENCY – AT 11:28 P.M. ET:  No matter how many times he says he's not running, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie is repeatedly mentioned by the Great Mentioner, and is the choice of many Republicans looking for a dynamic candidate.

But Christie is running into some headwinds at home.  He's a great governor, and great governors – those who make the tough decisions – will make enemies.  He has a hard-charging personality that may not wear well over time.  From the New York Post:

TRENTON, N.J. -- For the first time in over a year, the ranks of New Jersey residents who disapprove of Gov. Chris Christie have surpassed those who approve of his performance, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.

Public opinion on the Republican governor remains closely divided. According to a new poll from Monmouth University/NJ Press Media, 47 percent of New Jersey residents approve of Christie while 49 percent disapprove -- a gap well within the poll's margin of error.

But the trendlines show the governor holding steady with supporters while undecided residents are moving into the anti-Christie camp. Since Monmouth's last poll, conducted in February, disapproving respondents swelled by nine percentage points. Those with no opinion dropped by seven points.

COMMENT:  This will not dent the enthusiasm for Christie among national Republicans, but it is a warning sign.  Most Americans don't know Christie, and his very un-presidential style – some would say it's boxing ring lite – may turn off those unfamiliar with the superb manner in which he's tackled New Jersey's problems.

May 18, 2011