If the 2012 election were today, President Obama would easily carry the state of Minnesota against either Gov. Tim Pawlenty or Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, a new poll finds (July 7-8, 1491 RV, +/- 2.5%).

Public Policy Polling reports that although his approval rating in the state dropped to 54% from 60% in April, Obama would take down two-term incumbent Pawlenty 51%-40%, and 2008 vice presidential nominee Palin 56%-35%. Obama defeated McCain last year 54%-44%, to take Minnesota's 10 electoral votes.

Much of Obama's approval rating drop results from a loss of Republican support. Just 12% now approve of the job he's doing, compared with 23% in April. Pawlenty, who's announced he won't run for a third term and is speculated to be considering a bid for president, has an approval rating of 44%, with 48% disapproving. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) is at 56%/30%.