With Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R) heading for a run for governor, a new University of Texas survey finds the race to replace her rather close among six potential Republicans and two Democrats (Feb. 24-March 6, 715 A, MoE +/- 3.66%). Atty Gen. Greg Abbott was the only Republican to hold more than a 3-point lead against both Dems, and many voters remain undecided.

Republicans tested include: Abbott; Texas Railroad Commission chair Michael Williams; Texas Railroad Commission member Elizabeth Ames Jones; Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst; State Sen. Florence Shapiro; ex-Sec. of State Roger Williams.

Dems tested were ex-State Comptroller John Sharp and Houston Mayor Bill White, who also served in the Clinton administration.

Abbott 36 - Sharp 28
M. Williams 33 - Sharp 30
Jones 33 - Sharp 31
Dewhurst 34 - Sharp 33
Shapiro 31 - Sharp 32
R. Williams 29 - Sharp 33

Abbott 37 - White 28
M. Williams 35 - White 31
Jones 33 - White 30
Dewhurst 38 - White 36
Shapiro 32 - White 31
R. Williams 31 - White 33