Granted, we are a long way from the next presidential election, but at least one candidate is out there who already has the ability to beat Barack Obama -- Mitt Romney, the former governor of Massachusetts.

And at least one more candidate is within striking distance of the president.

If the 2012 presidential election were held today, President Obama and possible Republican nominee Mitt Romney would be all tied up at 45% each, according to a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey.

The president, seeking a second four-year term, beats another potential GOP rival, Alaska Governor Sarah Palin, by six points – 48% to 42%.

In both match-ups, seven percent (7%) like some other candidate, with three percent (3%) undecided.

It does make you wonder about all those out there who claim that Obama is incredibly popular and that opposing his policies is nothing less than opposing the American people.

Personally, I thought Romney was our best choice in 2008 -- and I certainly lean that direction now. Of course, a lot could happen between today and the beginning of the 2012 primary season -- and that yea's general election. Not the least of which being the 2010 congressional elections, which ought to see significant GOP gains.