While it is pointless to begin speculating three years before the primaries, polling shows Mitt Romney has more support from Republican voters than any other prospective candidate. The poll, out today from Gallup, shows Romney with a five point lead over Sarah Palin and seven point lead over Mike Huckabee.
Palin actually leads Romney in favorability amongst Republicans. While she may be slightly more popular, Romney’s advantage may indicate Republicans realize the threat she poses to the party. With Obama’s plummeting popularity, the GOP surprisingly has a chance to win in 2012. Palin may be popular with Republicans, but if she’s nominated, Obama would win in a landslide.
Romney looks like the right candidate for the GOP. His issue strengths are what the party needs to challenge Obama. He can speak articulately about economic issues, and he has the credentials to back up what he says.