Robert Novak says Kentucky leans Fletcher and Beshear.

Robert Novak, the Syndicated Columnist and Political Pundit, has renewed his opinion that Kentucky leans Fletcher. This time he also says Kentucky leans Beshear. Here's his opinion:

Governor 2007

Kentucky: Although the No. 3 candidate claims his internal polls show former Rep. Anne Northup (R-Ky.) pulling ahead, it appears more likely that she can, at best, force a runoff against troubled incumbent Gov. Ernie Fletcher (R). Even that appears unlikely at this point. One poll shows Fletcher 10 points ahead and well above the 40 percent threshold at which he avoids a runoff.

The incumbent governor has blown Northup away in fundraising. She must tear him down in order to have a second crack at him. Her late attack on his ethics in a recent debate is a sign of her recognition that he would finish the race with more than 40 percent if the election were held today. Leaning Fletcher.

On the Democratic side, former Lt. Gov. Steve Beshear is clearly the man to beat at this point. The most likely outcome of next Tuesday's primary is a runoff between him and Bruce Lunsford. Beshear has benefited from the departure of state Treasurer Jonathan Miller (D) from the race -- Miller endorsed Beshear as he exited. In debates, Beshear was everyone's target, a sign that all of the campaigns recognize his late frontrunner status. Leaning Beshear.