Shock GOP Poll: Gingrich Takes Lead, While Romney Drops

Newt Gingrich, the disgraced former Republican speaker, has taken the lead in a new national poll of Republicans. Gingrich leads the field with 28% of the vote, followed by 25% for Herman Cain and 18% support for Mitt Romney.

Gingrich is up 13% since Public Policy Polling’s last survey, while Cain’s favorability ratings have decreased since allegations of sexual harassment against him surfaced. Gingrich’s base of support is among those in the far-right Tea Party movement, and the pollster believes that a loss of support for Cain would increase Gingrich’s league.

Gingrich’s campaign has run into numerous roadblocks since he announced his candidacy. His entire senior campaign staff quit, while a six-figure line of credit at upscale jeweler Tiffany was revealed.