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In just eight months Former House Speaker Marco Rubio has managed to erase a 30 point lead to inch ahead of one of the most popular politicians in Florida history. The latest Quinnipiac Poll shows Rubio leading Governor Charlie Crist in the race for the US Senate, 47 to 44. Even though the lead falls within the margin of error, as Whitney Ray tells us, Rubio has the momentum.

Last June Governor Charlie Crist was considered a shoo-in for US Senate; his challenger, former House Speaker Marco Rubio, a speed bump at best. But the tables have turned.

Crist’s 30 point lead has evaporated. The latest Quinnipiac Poll shows Rubio up three points among Republicans.

“On the question about who is the most consistency conservative Mr. Rubio scores double digits better,” said Quinnipiac Pollster Peter Brown.

Crist’s appearance with President Barack Obama last February, a nationwide war on incumbents and the sinking economy are partially to blame for the turnaround.

The poll shows Crist’s job approval rate falling as unemployment increases.
In a news conference Tuesday Crist pointed to the economy for his recent misfortune, then renewed his commitment to Florida.

“I’m going to govern and my first responsibility is to be the governor of the state of Florida and to work hard for the people every single day,” said Crist.

A campaign manager for Rubio said the former speaker was too busy to talk on camera about his lead in the poll, but added the news is encouraging.

Despite losing the lead in the poll, Crist is still dominating the fundraising battle. Crist outraised Rubio in fourth quarter of 2009 and has 7.5 million dollars to spend getting his message to voters.