A new Research 2000 poll shows Rep. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) defeating all possible challengers in the 2006 Vermont Senate race. Sanders leads businessman Richard Tarrant (62% to 18%), Lt. Gov. Brian Dubie (59% to 23%) and Major General Martha Rainville (61% to 18%).
Adding to Sander's momentum was an endorsement from DNC Chief Howard Dean, even though he's not a Democrat. The Bennington Banner quotes Dean: "A victory for Bernie Sanders is a win for Democrats."