U.S. Sen. Susan Collins (R-Bangor) is leading her opponent U.S. Rep. Tom Allen (D-Portland) 53 percent to 38 percent, according to the latest Rasmussen Reports poll. With “leaners”, Collins has a 55 percent to 40 percent advantage.

Last month, the reports showed Collins with a 49 percent to 42 percent advantage.

The report states: “The new numbers mark a big improvement for Collins, who had just a seven-point lead and earned below 50% support from voters in July. She now has her highest level of support since April. Incumbents who fail to break above 50% are generally viewed as vulnerable.”

Also in the report:

-26 percent of Mainers think Gov. John Baldacci is doing a good or excellent job, 28 percent think he is doing a poor job

-In the presidential race, Barack Obama is leading John McCain 49 percent to 36 percent. Last month, Obama led 46 percent to 36 percent.