Republican pulls ahead of Democrat Strickland in latest survey

 

WASHINGTON — Just as recent polling showed the months-tied presidential race in Ohio swinging Hillary Clinton’s way, a new survey shows the previously deadlocked race for Ohio’s U.S. Senate seat showing movement, in this case toward a Republican incumbent.

A new poll from Quinnipiac University showed U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, R-Ohio, leading his Democratic challenger, former Gov. Ted Strickland 49 to 40 percent.

Polling over the last few months had shown a race that was either tied or with one candidate leading with a Portman lead the margin of error.

The survey of 812 voters was conducted from July 30 to Aug. 7 and has a margin of error of +/- 3.4 percent.

Democrats have targeted Portman, who is seeking re-election to his second term, in their hopes of retaking leadership of the Senate.

While Portman has strengthened his position, Strickland has sought to increase his visibility in the race and started running his first television ads in the state this week.