Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner (D) has weak approval ratings but potential challenge Jon Husted is mostly unknown to Ohioans.

Brunner's job approval rating stands at 39 percent, according to a poll from the Quinnipiac Polling Institute. Thirty-three percent said they didn't know and 28 percent have an unfavorable opinion.

Brunner is viewed favorably by 26 percent of voters and unfavorably by 24 percent. Forty-nine percent haven't heard enough. 

Former state House Speaker Jon Husted (R-Kettering) is unknown to 86 percent of voters. Currently a state senator, Husted has been the object of speculation that he will challenge Brunner in 2010. 

Husted said Brunner was "vulnerable" for reelection during an interview with PolitickerOH.com in August. 

EARLIER on PolitickerOH.com:

• Husted: Brunner is vulnerable in 2010