UTICA, NY — Newt Gingrich has surged into the lead of the Republican field for President among primary voters with 32%, followed by Herman Cain at 26%, Mitt Romney at 14% and Ron Paul at 8%. In theoretical match-ups with Barack Obama among all voters, both Romney and Gingrich are statistically tied with the President.

The IBOPE Zogby interactive poll conducted from Nov. 15-17 also finds Obama’s approval rating holding steady 44%, as is the percentage saying he deserves re-election (40%).

The poll also asked whom Republican primary voters would choose if the only candidates were Romney and either Gingrich, Cain, Rick Perry or Ron Paul. Both Gingrich and Cain easily defeat Romney, who defeats Perry and Paul.