By FNC Reporter Shannon Bream

On the campaign trail today it’s a drizzly, gray day in northern New Jersey, but Republican challenger Chris Christie is clearly optimistic.  A new poll from Rasmussen Reports give Christie a slight lead over the Democratic incumbent, Governor Jon Corzine – 46% to 43%.  The wildcard is third-party candidate Chris Daggett.  While his share of the pie slipped to just 7% in the Rasmussen poll, a number of analysts say he is hurting Christie more than Corzine.  Christie seems unconcerned about Daggett, and is quick to lump him in with Corzine.  We’ll find out if voters are buying the strategy, one week from today.

About 75 prospective voters showed up at Garvey’s Pub in Monroe Township, New Jersey, on Tuesday to talk with Christie firsthand.  They posed tough questions about job losses, health care and taxes.  The crowd was polite, but passionate.  They included a man who has plastered the side, front and back of his large RV with bright orange letters touting Christie as the answer to all of New Jersey’s problems.

The Corzine camp, flush with cash and big-name support, will welcome former President Bill Clinton for a second appearance tonight.  Then, President Obama will join Corzine for the third time on Sunday.  Of the visits, Corzine says, “I think it’s helpful that a popular president believes that I could be a better partner with him than other candidates in the race.”  To which Christie replied, “In the end, he'll get on the Air Force One and leave.  He's not gonna stay here and help run New Jersey.”  Christie continued, “The people of New Jersey are too smart for that.”