PPP survey of SC: Mittens 29% Newt 24% Paul 15% Santorum 14%

Mitt Romney continues to hold a modest lead in South Carolina's Republican primary for President. He's at 29% to 24% for Newt Gingrich, 15% for Ron Paul, 14% for Rick Santorum, 6% for Rick Perry, 5% for Jon Huntsman, and 1% for Buddy Roemer.

Things haven't changed too much at the top in the last week. Romney is down 1 point from his pre-New Hampshire standing, while Gingrich has gained a point. There's more movement in the middle. Paul has gained 6 points to move into 3rd place, while Santorum has dropped by 5 points. Rick Perry and Jon Huntsman have each picked up a single point and remain in 5th and 6th place respectively.

Why is Romney winning South Carolina? Voters there are overwhelmingly focused on the economy this year and that's working to his advantage. 39% say jobs and the economy are their top issue, closely followed by 34% who pick government spending and reducing the debt. Asked who they trust most on economic issues 35% pick Romney to 25% for Gingrich, 16% for Paul, and 10 for Santorum. And despite the attacks on it this week Romney's business background is an asset for him. 58% have a favorable opinion of his record in business to just 27% with a negative view of it.

http://www.publicpolicypolling.com/main/2012/01/romney-leads-in-sc-paul-gaining.html#tp

They ask why is Romney winning SC? as if 29% is so fantastic. It's because the right wing is divided. If it were one on one, say Newt vs. Romney I wonder if Mitt would be ahead?