Rasmussen survey finds Rubio leads Crist by 12 points

Former Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio spoke at the Duval Republican Women's meeting in Jacksonville. He packed the house.Former Speaker of the Florida House Marco Rubio leads Gov. Charlie Crist by 12 points among likely GOP Primary voters in the race to determine who will oppose a Democrat for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Mel Martinez. Rasmussen Reports said, "A new Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of likely GOP Primary voters in the state finds Rubio leading Crist 49% to 37%. Three percent (3%) prefer another candidate, and 11% are undecided."

RR also said, "Rubio leads Crist by 17 points among men and by seven among women. He also carries 52% of the conservative GOP vote, while moderates prefer Crist."

In another survey, both candidates hold a double digit lead over Democrat Congressman Kendrick Meek. The latest RR survey found Crist has a 15-point lead on Meek among likely Florida voters, 48% to 33%.

Rubio now posts a 17-point lead on Meek among likely Florida voters, 49% to 32%.

An announcement from Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC) with the Senate Conservatives Fund said Rubio had already met the group's moneybomb goal of $100,000, having raised or generated pledges for $108,107 with 8 more days to go. The SCF has set a new goal of $200,000 by Feb. 10. The SCF endorsed Rubio, going against the preferences of some established Republicans in Congress.

Rubio supporters have understandable respect for Crist--the charismatic governor is famous for his fundraising ability.

DeMint said, "Marco Rubio started the race last year polling in single digits and the Republican establishment in Washington said he had no chance. But now he's leading the race and is in a strong position to win this important Senate seat for conservatives."