GOP field, led by Penry, outperforming Ritter in DBJ poll

Republican state Sen. Josh Penry is currently leading a Denver Business Journal web poll that asks readers to pick a favored candidate in next year's gubernatorial election. Penry tops incumbent Democrat Gov. Bill Ritter 42 percent to 15 percent as of Thursday afternoon in the site's weekly "Business Pulse" survey, an unscientific gauge of reader opinion.

Respondents may cast a vote for Ritter, who is seeking re-election to a second term, or any of the currently announced contenders for the GOP nomination including Penry, Evergreen businessman Dan Maes and U.S. Rep. Scott McInnis, who comes in second at 24 percent. As of press time, the combined GOP field garnered 75% of all votes cast. Nine percent of respondents chose "none of the above" or "I don't know."

The poll is open to votes through next Tuesday and does not require a subscription to participate.