The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of Likely Republican primary voters in Texas found John McCain with a twenty-point lead over Mike Huckabee, 54% to 34%. Texas Congressman Ron Paul receives support from 7% while 5% are not sure.

Huckabee does slightly better among women voters (38%) than male voters (30%.) McCain earns support from 56% of men and 51% of women.

Among conservative voters, McCain still holds an 18-point lead over Huckabee. He also leads Huckabee 53% to 34% among unaffiliated voters.

McCain’s numbers in the Lone Star state have not changed much over the past week. Last Sunday, McCain was leading 52% to 31%.

McCain and Huckabee’s favorability ratings are quite close among Texas GOP Primary voters. McCain is viewed favorably by 76% and unfavorably by 24%. Huckabee’s numbers are 72% favorable and 26% unfavorable. Paul earns positive reviews from 34% and negative reviews from 60%.

If McCain becomes the Republican Party’s nominee in the general election, 85% of voters believe he is at least somewhat likely to win the presidency. Only 12% disagree.

Nationally, the Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll finds McCain leading both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama in general election match-ups.

Twenty-seven percent (27%) of Texas Republican Primary voters see the economy as the most important issue of the upcoming election, with Immigration close behind at 24%. National Security is the most important issue for 20%.

Rasmussen Markets data now shows McCain with a % chance to win the nomination and Huckabee has a % chance. On the Democratic side, the Markets give Obama a % chance to win the Democratic nomination while expectations for a Clinton victory are at %. Numbers in this paragraph are from a prediction market, not a poll. Using a trading format where traders "buy and sell" candidates, issues, and news features, the Rasmussen Markets harness competitive passions to provide a reliable leading indicator of upcoming events. We invite you to participate in the Rasmussen Markets. It costs nothing to join and add your voice to the collective wisdom of the market.

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