HARTFORD, Conn. -- Gov. Jodi Rell announced that she would not be seeking re-election in 2010, which leaves the door wide open for more candidates to enter the race. One day after her announcement, a new poll showed that if the election were held today, the governor could win.

The poll released on Tuesday is favorable to the governor, but Rell already made her decision and seems almost relieved. The poll is also favorable to Secretary of State Susan Bysiewicz, one of a handful of Democratic challengers who have not officially thrown their hat into the ring.

It was business as usual for the governor on Tuesday. She attended a swearing-in ceremony for New Britain Mayor Tim Stewart.

However, outside, the focus was on who will take over when the governor steps down.

The governor’s decision leaves the race wide open for Republican candidates.

Lt. Gov. Michael Fidele said he had the support of the governor, but stopped short of an endorsement.

Rell said she did a lot of soul searching and talked with her family before coming to the decision to not run for re-election.

Rell said, "You really do know inside that it's time to start a new chapter in your life."

Rell was visibly emotional when she talked about the citizens of Connecticut during her announcement on Monday night.

Rell said that she was still the governor and there was still a lot of work to be done.