Sen. Arlen Specter (R) appears to be more popular with Democrats than with Republicans in his home state, according to poll results released this week.

A Quinnipiac University poll showed Specter with a 56 percent approval rating among 1,490 registered voters in the Keystone State, with 30 percent disapproving of the moderate Republican. Of that group, 55 percent of Republicans approved of Specter, while 62 percent of Democrats approved of him.

But despite his high bipartisan marks, only 40 percent of respondents said Specter deserved re-election — 42 percent of Republicans compared with 41 percent of Democrats.

The poll, taken Feb. 4-9, had a margin of error of 2.5 points.

Specter is up for re-election in 2010 and is virtually assured of facing a difficult general election contest. He could see a primary challenge from someone in the more conservative wing of the Republican Party.

Former National Constitution Center President Joe Torsella (D) filed his candidacy this week, while Rep. Allyson Schwartz (D) is also considering a Senate bid.