The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey of likely Republican primary voters in Vermont found John McCain with a commanding lead in the state. McCain earns support from 68%, Mike Huckabee from 17% and Ron Paul from 5%.

McCain fares best among moderate voters, with 75% voting for McCain and only 12% choosing Huckabee. McCain also draws in more than 60% of Conservative voters.

Huckabee earns the most support from young voters, but still not more than McCain. Among voters between the ages of 18 and 29, 33% plan to vote for the former Arkansas governor while 52% choose McCain.

Vermont’s Republican Primary voters also see McCain has a highly electable candidate, with 81% who say that he is at least somewhat likely to be elected president if nominated. Only 15% disagree.

McCain is viewed favorably by 88% of republican voters in Vermont and unfavorably by 11%. Huckabee is viewed favorably by 64% and unfavorably by 32%. Paul earns positive reviews from 34% and negative reviews from 51%.

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.

The economy is the most important issue for 46% of Vermont GOP voters in the upcoming presidential election. National Security comes in at a distant second with 18%, while Immigration comes in third with 13%.

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