New CNN Poll Puts Perry Far Ahead of Romney

Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry continues to show strength in polls. A CNN/ORC International survey released today indicates that the Texas governor has a strong lead over Mitt Romney among Republicans and independents who lean Republican – 27 percent to 14 percent.

Polls last week from Gallup and Public Policy Polling also put Perry in the lead, throwing the front-runner position in play between ex-Massachusetts Gov. Romney and Perry.

Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin, who hasn’t entered the race, placed third in the CNN/ORC poll with 10 percent. Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who also hasn’t entered the race, were tied for fourth with 9 percent. And former House Speaker Newt Gingrich and Rep. Ron Paul of Texas tied for sixth at 6 percent.