New York, July 10 (IANS) A latest opinion poll reveals that actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is also the Republican California governor, has extended his lead over his nearest rival in the upcoming state elections set to take place in November.

According to hollywood.com, actor-turned-politician Schwarzenegger is thought to have 44 percent of the eligible electorate behind him, with 37 percent backing Democratic candidate Phil Angelides.

In March, Schwarzenegger held a fragile 3 percent opinion poll lead over Angelides. His increased popularity is attributed to his decision to send National Guardsmen to the Mexican border in to keep illegal immigrants out of California.

Austrian-born Schwarzenegger, 58, took up office in 2003 after Democrat Gray Davis was recalled by voters.

photo source:BOB