* Kevin McDermott…

A new poll by Strive Strategies shows Quinn with 64 percent of the Democratic vote, to Hardiman’s 36 percent.

In a news release, the polling firm calls that a “solid lead” and presents it as good news for Quinn. It isn’t. Hardiman has no political base, no money, and has received no serious media coverage. It’s unlikely that one-third of Democratic Illinois voters even know who he is, let alone are supporting him.

Which means this is a classic “anyone-but-Quinn” protest vote — from within Quinn’s own party.

I don’t know much about this polling firm, but I’ve been planning my own poll this week. I’ll let you know what happens.

* There are no silver medals in campaigns, but the more support Hardiman gets, the weaker Quinn’s gonna look when the primary is over.

Quinn has always had trouble with female voters, and Hardiman is winning 40 percent of Democratic women.

* Also, We Ask America is planning to release its GOP tracking results at around 8 o’clock tonight. Click here at that time and use this post to comment below.