While Losing to Jeb Bush, Poll Shows Bill Nelson Leads GOP Hopefuls but Vulnerable in 2012

A poll released on Tuesday showed that Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson is vulnerable in 2012 when he plans to seek a third term.

The poll, backed by Ron Sachs Communications and conducted by Mason-Dixon, found former Gov. Jeb Bush took 49 percent, beating Nelson who garnered 41 percent. While Bush is unlikely to run, Nelson led the rest of the possible Republican candidates but failed to muster 50 percent against any of the potential GOP hopefuls.

U.S. Rep. Connie Mack, whose father held the seat for two terms before Nelson won election in 2000, took 40 percent while Nelson stood at 45 percent. Nelson did better against other potential Republican candidates. The Democrat garnered 49 percent against former U.S. Sen. George LeMieux who took 35 percent. Nelson took 48 percent against Senate President Mike Haridopolos who had 25 percent. Nelson beat former House Majority Leader Adam Hasner, 46 percent to 24 percent.

The poll of 625 registered voters was taken on Feb. 9-10 and had a margin of error of +/- 4 percent.

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