A new Quinnipiac poll in Connecticut finds Sen. Chris Dodd (D) trailing three potential Republican challengers, including former Rep. Rob Simmons, who leads Dodd by 16 points (March 26-31, 1181 RV, MoE +/- 2.9%). Just 58% of Democrats back Dodd against Simmons, while Simmons wins the support of 87% of Republicans.

Dodd faces dismal approval ratings: 33% approve and 58% disapprove of Dodd's handling of his job. Plus, a quarter of voters say Dodd is most to blame for the AIG bonuses.

“A 33 percent job approval is unheard of for a 30-year incumbent, especially a Democrat in a blue state," said Quinnipiac pollster Doug Schwartz. "Sen. Christopher Dodd's numbers among Democrats are especially devastating."

Other Republicans tested against Dodd include State Sen. Sam Caligiuri and former ambassador Tom Foley.

Simmons 50 (+7 vs. last poll, March 10)
Dodd 34 (-8)
Und 12

Caligiuri 41 (+7 vs. last poll, March 10)
Dodd 37 (-10)
Und 18

Foley 43
Dodd 35
Und 21

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