As the Iowa caucuses loom, Newt Gingrich’s wide lead ahead of other candidates has diminished. According to a new national survey, the former House speaker has 28% of support from Republicans and independents. Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney has the same amount. Just last month, Gingrich was ahead of Romney by a margin of 20-24%. The recent survey has Texas Rep. Ron Paul in third with 14%, Minnesota Rep. Michele Bachmann with 8%, Texas Gov. Rick Perry with 7%, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum with 4% and former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman trailing at 2%, with 9% undecided.
The main factor in Romney’s rise at Gingrich’s expense seems to be his likeability, according to polling director Keating Holland. “Romney’s appeal to Republican voters seems to be based mostly on his personal qualities, many of which – including likability and trustworthiness – are problem areas for Gingrich,” Holland said.
